The Directorate General for Health (DGS) has sought the opinion of the HCSP regarding how to respond to individuals who have been exposed to asbestos on a one-time basis and who would like to know the risks of developing a disease related to that exposure. 

The HCSP recommends a methodology based on the following steps:

• Initiate the process;
• Confirm the presence of asbestos;
• Assess the level of exposure and the level of risk (excluding individual factors);
• Provide guidance on the technical measures to be taken at the source;
• Propose arrangements for medical follow-up;
• Compile the information; 
• Identify the regulatory bodies.

Each step requires regulatory adjustments to harmonize practices, clarify responsibilities, strengthen intervention powers, and ensure traceability.

 The HCSP recommends extending the system to pollutants similar to regulated asbestos and considering how to expand the system to other environmental pollutants.

The HCSP notes that this opinion constitutes the second part of its work on guidelines for communicating about asbestos. In its opinion dated July 3, 2025, the HCSP proposes guidelines for institutions to use when communicating with individuals who have been exposed to asbestos regarding the associated health risks.