Introduction

In today’s world, respiratory diseases are becoming increasingly common due to pollution, smoking, and exposure to hazardous chemicals. One such respiratory disease that has garnered significant attention in recent times is occupational asthma. As an employer, it is crucial to understand occupational asthma, its symptoms, and how to take necessary measures to prevent it from affecting your employees.

What is occupational asthma?

Occupational asthma is a lung disease caused by inhaling fumes, gases, dust, or other harmful substances that irritate the airways. These substances are known as respiratory sensitisers, and when an employee is exposed to them, they may experience symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. If a worker continues to be exposed to these respiratory sensitisers, their asthma may worsen, ultimately leading to long-term lung damage.

What are the symptoms?

The indicators of occupational asthma are similar to those of standard asthma. Typical symptoms include coughing, wheezing, tightness in the chest, and shortness of breath. It may take days, months, or even years for the symptoms to develop, which makes it difficult to detect the cause. Even employees exposed to smaller quantities of respiratory sensitisers may complain of experiencing allergic symptoms such as an itchy or runny eye or nose. If an employee experiences any symptoms, they should immediately speak to their employer and seek medical help.

What can cause occupational asthma?

Several substances can cause respiratory sensitisation. For example, the fumes from chemicals like isocyanates, used in the production of foams, coatings, and adhesives, are one of the most common causes of occupational asthma. Workers in manufacturing and construction jobs, where such chemicals are used frequently, are at a high risk of inhaling workplace contaminants. Furthermore, dust from wood and grain mills can be a trigger and employees exposed to laboratory animals are also at risk.

What can employers do?

Employers can take several measures to prevent occupational asthma from developing among employees. One of the most critical measures employers can take is to identify and assess the risk of respiratory sensitisers in the workplace and implement suitable measures to prevent exposure. Employers need to provide adequate ventilation systems, respiratory protective equipment, and information about the risk of exposure and how to prevent it. Additionally, frequent health checks and medical surveillance of workers who are at a higher risk of developing occupational asthma can help identify any problems early on. Employers should consider offering training and educating workers on the risks of respiratory sensitisers, how to avoid exposure, and how to recognise the symptoms of occupational asthma.

Conclusion

Occupational asthma is a serious problem that can significantly affect an employee’s health and productivity. By identifying and assessing the risk of respiratory sensitisers, providing adequate protective equipment, implementing safety measures and effectively communicating information about the risks to employees, employers can create a safer and healthier work environment for their employees. We are here to help, if you would like support in protecting your employees’ health and wellbeing, contact us today at info@mohs.co.uk