Occupational lung diseases occur as a result of repeated and long-term exposure to air particulates and irritants. Many lung diseases are preventable as long as they are recognized early. Symptoms of occupational lung disease include:
How Respiratory Diseases Occur:
Finer particles travel deeper into the lungs potentially creating more damage to the lung tissue. Prevention:
Certain lung conditions such as occupational asthma are reversible if detected early. However, most lung diseases are irreversible. Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of lung diseases including lung cancer and emphysema. Proper mask protection: While most employees use facial masks, it is vital that masks are properly fit for each employee.
Spirometry: Early lung changes can be detected with a simple pulmonary function test.
Pulmonary Function Tests:
Pulmonary function tests are an array of tests designed to determine the quantity of air a client’s lungs can hold, how quickly that client can move air in and out of their lungs, and how efficient the lungs can exchange oxygen and carbon dioxide gases. A spirometry test is often the initial pulmonary function test performed. Age – the natural elasticity of the lungs decreases with age thereby decrease lung volumes and capacities
Race – All races have different pulmonary function test results
Proper Mask Protection:
If the client cannot detect the odour, the test is considered a pass. This type of testing can only be performed on disposable and half-face masks.
Quantitative mask fitting delivers a numerical measurement of the “fit factor” of a particular respirator. This type of testing can be performed on all types of masks.
Quantitative mask fitting offers several distinct advantages:
Quantitative testing makes a direct measurement of mask fit factors.
The particle counting device can accurately measure “fit factors” up to 100 000.
Workers are often exposed to jobsite irritants and particulates that alter lung function and lead to occupational lung diseases. Many of these diseases are avoidable or treatable through prevention and early diagnosis including annual pulmonary function testing and adequate mask fitting.
Posted in