Occupational Asthma Breathing safely at Work

Jane Hallett 2002 Asthma §What is it? §What causes it? §How to control exposure §Recap

Jane Hallett 2002 What is Occupational Asthma? Some substances can cause allergies if you breathe them in. They are called sensitisers. They can cause permanent damage to your nose, throat and lungs.

Jane Hallett 2002 What is Occupational Asthma? Once sensitised, further exposure will result in asthmatic symptoms - §wheezing §coughing §tightness of chest §breathlessness §runny eyes & nose

Jane Hallett 2002 What Causes it? §Isocyanates §Animal antigens §Anhydrides §Paper dust §Fluxes §Metals §Flour §Wood dust §Drugs Spray painters, foam & insulation workers Laboratory animal workers Plastic industry workers Librarians, bookkeeper, post office clerk Electronic workers Welders, metal plating workers Bakers, millers Carpenters, saw mill workers Pharmaceutical workers

What Causes it?

Jane Hallett 2002 How to Control Exposure Employer §Minimise Exposure §Provide information §Provide training §Supply PPE §Supply ventilation §Comply with the law Employee §Be aware of asthma §Take care with substances §Use PPE §Maintain PPE §Report symptoms

Jane Hallett 2002 Recap - Occupational Asthma §Caused by sensitising substances §Symptoms can occur randomly §Wheezing, coughing, breathlessness §Be aware of the problem §Use PPE & controls §Report any symptoms