Other Workplaces

This information is for people that work in other areas. It gives information on things in the workplace that could damage the lungs and advice on how to protect them.

What are the hazards?

These are some of the hazards you may come into contact with at work.

  • Dust

    Inhalation of dust and other particles from manufacturing processes, flour, grain, animals, wood and brick.

  • Vapours and gases

    From chemicals, paints and glues, manufacturing processes, engines and cleaning products. Aerosols and sprays can contain substances that irritate or damage the lungs.

  • Bacteria and viruses

    Some infectious lung diseases can be transmitted in the workplace particularly if you work in agriculture or with animals, or in a healthcare or leisure environment.

Smoking or vaping harms your lungs

Smoking is the biggest risk factor for lung conditions like COPD and lung cancer.
Vaping also exposes your lungs to harmful chemicals.

Quitting smoking or vaping will help protect your lungs.

Nicotine is addictive, and stopping can be difficult.

Conditions

How can your health be affected?

How to protect yourself

Your employer has a responsibility to ensure the work environment is appropriately ventilated and that you are provided with protective clothing and appropriate safety advice.

Here are some easy things you can do to ensure you’re doing everything you can to protect your lung health at work.

  • Assess Risk

    Do risk assessments to make sure you are doing jobs safely and efficiently.

  • Wear the right protective equipment

    Wearing appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) can help reduce exposure to harmful substances, particularly when other measures cannot fully control what’s in the air. Depending on your work, this could include masks, gloves or eye protection. Your employer is responsible for providing the right equipment for your role, as well as training on how to use it correctly.

    Different masks and other PPE are available in a range of sizes and designs. If you are having trouble using the equipment supplied by your employer, you should discuss the options for using a different kind.

  • Ventilation

    All workplaces need an adequate supply of fresh air – however if you are self employed you may not work in a ventilation controlled environment.

    Using a dust lamp is a cheap and effect way to identify dust and mist clouds in your work environment and assist you in identifying if your workplace is ventilating properly.

  • Health check-ups

    Get your health checked regularly. If there is a health scheme at your workplace, take part in it. Otherwise, see a healthcare professional regularly and make sure they know about your workplace. Health surveillance might include answering questions about your symptoms or lung function tests. This can help identify problems early.

    If you notice any new symptoms or are concerned about your health, don’t wait. Report them to your doctor or occupational health scheme promptly.

  • When Cleaning

    Check ingredients in cleaning products and avoid those that will put you at risk.

    Use wipes not sprays so that you are putting less chemicals into the air for you to breathe in.

    Follow label instructions about the safe use of chemicals.

  • Avoid Harmful Products

    Check whether any of the products you use can be swapped for versions that are less damaging to health.

  • Get vaccinated

    Vaccination can protect you from several lung infections you might be exposed to at work, and help keep your lungs healthy.

    Some workplaces offer vaccinations through an occupational health scheme – check if this is available to you. If not, talk to your doctor about which vaccines are right for you.

  • Know what to expect from your employer

    Your employer has a responsibility to reduce your exposure to harmful substances. This can include using safer alternatives where possible, ensuring adequate ventilation, and providing the right equipment, training and safety advice.

    If any of this seems to be missing at your workplace, it is worth raising it with your employer, health and safety representative or union.

More information