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Air Quality in the Workplace

© Leigh G. Kirtley

"Occupational lung disease is the number one work-related illness in the United States. The diseases that fall under this category are caused by exposure, usually extended, to irritating or toxic substances that may cause acute or chronic respiratory ailments. Smoking can increase the severity of these diseases many-fold.

More than 17,000 lung cancer deaths each year are attributable to inhalation of cancer-causing agents in the workplace."

That is a direct quote from the American Lung Association's Web page on Occupational health. While that quote singles out the number of lung cancer deaths, it is still impossible to ignore the implications of poor air quality for asthmatics at work. I've written several articles dealing with air quality at home, and now I feel it is time to address the workplace, where many adult asthmatics spend a great deal of time.

Additionally, occupational asthma is another concern where your breathing problems are associated with your work environment.

Whether you work in a manufacturing or office environment, you have a right to know what chemicals and substances you are exposed to. You can request a Medical Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) from your employer. In the United States, chemical manufacturers are required to provide this sheet, which lists the properties of and potential health risks associated with the substance. If necessary, you may have to ensure that your workplace is sufficiently ventilated or you may need to wear protective gear when in that area.

Check with your local health department to find out how you can work with your employer and what your rights are where you live.

Hazardous materials and allergens may be a part of your work environment, such as factories, farms, veterinary clinics, dry cleaners, etc. In this case, avoiding or improving the air quality may be next to impossible. Still, there are some things you can do.

Practice good hand washing techniques. It's simple and effective. Remember, though, that "good" means using soap and warm water for at least 30 seconds. A quick rinse is useless.

If you have a desk at work, keep your area as clean as possible. This makes it easier for the cleaning crews to come in and do their job. Many are reluctant to shift your piles around so they can clean and dust.

Do your part to keep common areas clean as well, especially kitchen areas. Refrigerators filled with moldy food and sinks of dirty dishes breed bacteria that can wreak havoc with your allergies.