Breathing problems or lung damage can result from contact with various substances in the workplace, such as dust (e.g. coal, grains, fibreglass, pesticides and wood), gases (e.g. chlorine, ammonia and sulphur dioxide), fumes (e.g. from the manufacture of plastics, welding etc.), mists (e.g. from spray paint, varnish, pesticides etc.) and vapours (e.g. those given off by solvents, which can first affect the nose and throat before affecting the lungs).
COSHH regulations state that employers have a ‘duty of care’ to their employees that are prone to be exposed to respiratory sensitizers, such as those listed above, due to these employees being at a higher risk of a reduction in lung function from this exposure. The employer has a duty to provide employees prone to be exposed with protective breathing apparatus i.e. a mask or respirator and adequate ventilation.
Damage to lung function can be detected early with regular spirometry checks.
For further information on COSHH regulations please see:
