THE NSW government is asking people who may have been exposed to asbestos to undergo medical screening during 2009 Asbestos Awareness Week.
Attorney-General John Hatzistergos says occupational health and safety regulations require employers to provide health checks for employees who are exposed to hazardous substances like asbestos.
"(It is) an appropriate time for people to seek out information about the potential risks of being exposed to asbestos."
Inhalation of asbestos fibres can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis scarring of the lungs.
Workers are able to undergo screening at the Dust Diseases Board in Sydney.
National Asbestos Awareness Week runs from 23 to 27 November 2009.