1. Medical and occupational history
The doctor takes a history with particular reference to respiratory conditions, your smoking habits, and any previous exposure to asbestos or other dusts and fibres.
2. Respiratory symptom questionnaire
You'll complete a standard respiratory symptom questionnaire (form MSLW1 for licensed work), covering symptoms like breathlessness, cough and chest pain.
3. Clinical examination
A physical examination focused on the respiratory system, with particular attention to basal crackles, a sound the doctor listens for at the base of the lungs that can indicate early lung changes.
4. Lung function test
Spirometry measures your lung function, recording your FEV1 (the volume of air you can exhale in one second) and FVC (the total volume you can exhale). This is a standard breathing test, not invasive or painful.
Chest X-rays are the exception, not the rule
Several providers imply a chest X-ray is a routine part of an asbestos medical. It generally isn't. HSE guidance to appointed doctors states plainly that routinely obtaining a chest X-ray at initial or periodic examinations for licensed work is not justified, and that a doctor should only request one where they can justify it on individual clinical grounds, and where a recent X-ray isn't already available elsewhere.