What is the primary purpose of a medical surveillance program for asbestos workers?

The primary purpose of a medical surveillance program for asbestos workers is to monitor health effects from exposure to asbestos and to provide early detection of diseases associated with this exposure, such as asbestosis and lung cancer. These programs are essential because they aim to identify potential health issues before they become severe, allowing for timely treatment and intervention. Regular health assessments help in tracking any changes in a worker’s health status over time, which is particularly important given the long latency period associated with asbestos-related diseases.

While providing health insurance is important for supporting workers, it is not the central aim of a medical surveillance program. Additionally, conducting regular training sessions is critical for informing workers about hazards and safety practices but does not directly relate to health monitoring. Ensuring compliance with regulations is necessary for safety and legal adherence, but it does not intrinsically focus on the health surveillance aspect that is central to the welfare of asbestos workers. Hence, monitoring health effects and enabling early detection of diseases is the fundamental goal of these medical surveillance programs.