100 likes | 243 Views
Occupational Asthma. Breathing safely at Work. Asthma. What is it? What causes it? How to control exposure Recap. What is Occupational Asthma?. Some substances can cause allergies if you breathe them in. They are called sensitisers.
E N D
Occupational Asthma Breathing safely at Work
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
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
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 How to Control Exposure 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 Jane Hallett 2002