July 22, 2011 at 1:21 PM

Occupational asthma is becoming increasingly common. It occurs when a person develops asthma symptoms in response to an exposure to dust, fumes, gases or other irritants in the workplace these are known as workplace triggers.  Approximately 10% of all asthma cases are now believed to have an occupational source such as an inhaled irritants (i.e. spray paints, chlorine, isocyanates,  formaldehyde).  High temperatures and poor air quality may also trigger asthma symptoms in susceptible individuals.  Employers should always take precautions to minimize exposure to occupational asthma triggers.
 
When a substance, such as a chemical, animal dander or wood dust, is inhaled over time, the immune system in the airways triggers an antibody response. This response causes inflammation or swelling of the breathing tubes, constriction of the surrounding muscles and extra mucus production. The effects of these changes are asthma symptoms, such as difficulty in breathing, coughing, wheezing and chest tightness.  Asthma may also be triggered because the offending substance is a direct irritant to the airways. When this occurs, there is no antibody response, but the same symptoms occur and may be severe.  Additional factors such as smoking and poor air quality may worsen symptoms. 
 
Workplace Prevention 
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations state that employers must provide a safe work environment. The best way to prevent occupational asthma is to replace dangerous substances with less harmful ones, additional recommendations include: 

• Screen applicants for positions where exposure to irritants are likely to be encountered,
• Minimizing exposure through engineering controls such as, ventilation and enclosures of processes and providing adequate air quality, 
• Provide masks and respirators when working with very toxic material, and training for how to properly use these devices,
• Put in place proper handling procedures including the avoidance of spills and good housekeeping, and
• Know what to do if someone experiences asthma symptoms.

For additional information visit: http://www.osha.gov/SLTC/occupationalasthma/index.html.

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