Addressing the Key Issues - Occupational Asthma |
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Work related asthma affects workers inhaling dusts which are respiratory sensitisers. Asthma is an extremely distressing and potentially life-threatening disease. Occupational asthma comprises 40% of cases of occupational ill health assessed by the Department of Social Security in the food and drink industries. Respiratory sensitisers include dust from:
Workers involved in milling, malting, baking, fish processing and coopering are at particular risk. Grain, flour and wood dust can also cause rhinitis (runny or stuffy nose), conjunctivitis (watery or prickly eyes) and other irritant effects. To check how you are managing occupational asthma hazards go to: Level 3 self assessment. Click here to return to HSE priorities.
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