How long must asbestos medical exams and exposure records be maintained by an employer?

The duration for maintaining asbestos medical exams and exposure records by an employer is set at "employment plus 30 years." This requirement aligns with federal regulations that mandate that employers keep these important records for a substantial period, allowing for adequate monitoring of health effects that may emerge long after an employee’s exposure to asbestos has ended.

The rationale behind maintaining these records for the length of employment plus an additional 30 years stems from the known latency period associated with asbestos-related diseases, such as asbestosis and mesothelioma, which can take decades to manifest. This extended record-keeping ensures that former employees have access to their exposure history and medical evaluations, should any health issues arise later in life as a result of their exposure.

By maintaining these records for such an extended duration, employers also demonstrate a commitment to worker health and safety, as well as compliance with legal obligations regarding occupational exposure to hazardous materials. This policy helps in making informed decisions about health monitoring and potential compensation claims related to asbestos exposure.