Spirometry (Lung Function)

Substances that can cause occupational lung disease/occupational asthma usually trigger a requirement for lung function health surveillance. These can be in the form of allergens or irritants such as: grain and poultry dusts – the most common cause of occupational asthma among agricultural workers, vapours and particles from surgical techniques in hospitals, wood dust produced when machining or sanding and fumes, mists and vapours from electronic, engineering or metal work, from adhesives, and from chlorine in indoor pools. The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2004, state that if an occupational asthma agent is present in the workplace appropriate health surveillance is required.

What does it involve?

• Respiratory questionnaire
• Blood pressure reading
• Lung function test
• Onward referral if applicable
• An outcome certificate satisfying HSE requirements.