Risks: Asthma

Asthma is a serious health problem. Symptoms include severe shortness of breath than can stop people from doing the simplest of tasks. Other symptoms include wheezing, coughing and chest tightness.

Workplace asthma is an allergic reaction that can occur when employees are exposed to workplace substances. These substances are called ‘respiratory sensitisers’ and they can cause changes in the airways of the lung so that another exposure to the same substance, even a very small amount, can trigger an asthma attack. The symptoms can develop right after exposure or sometimes several hours later.

There are hundreds of substances that can cause workplace asthma. Some of the most commonly reported ones include:

• Isocyanates (found in two-pack paints in vehicle refinishing)
• Flour and grain dust
• Colophony and flux (used for soldering)
• Natural rubber latex
• Wood dust
• Metal working fluids (used during machining and shaping of metals, sometimes called suds, coolants, slurry or soap)

From 2004 to 2006, an estimated 40 new cases of workplace asthma were reported each year in Wales, and it is a significant and growing problem. Some sufferers can never work again and others may have to change jobs to avoid exposure to the substance that caused the asthma.

Workers most at risk are those in:

• Food production (bakeries and other workplaces where flour is used)
• Motor vehicle repair body shops
• Electrical repair using colophony and flux for soldering
• Manufacturing (especially woodworking and engineering firms)

Workboost Wales has specialist advisers who can help you assess and reduce the risks from asthma. Call us now on 0845 609 6006 – remember our advice is free and confidential.

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