Hi

Staff exposed to animals are identified on their pre-employment health form (PEHQ). The first page of this requires the recruiting manager to identify any hazards associated with the intended post inc. work with animals or hazardous chemicals. (the form is then given to the employee who returns it in confidence to OH)

When we received their PEHQ we send them an appt for baseline spirometry (and imms if reqd). This is   repeated at 6 and 12 weeks post recruitment as per HSE guidelines.

Thereafter the employee and all existing staff have lung function tests annually. As part of the lung function test a respiratory questionnaire is always completed (usually with much grumbling) by the employees.

If I have a concern about an employee at recruitment I would not pas them as ' fit' but refer them to our OH consultant-having first assessed their workplace and done spirometry.

If I have concerns about existing staff either because of symptoms or 'abnormal' spirometry, I often  do a workplace visit  but usually repeat the spirometry and them refer them to the OHPhysician. In the meantime I have usually placed restrictions on their level and frequency of exposure and also advised about RPE/PPE. (This advice is always given in writing and copied with the employees consent to the local H&S person and the line manager) In some cases this is getting them to wear it for the first time (!) or increasing the level of protection i.e. going from face mask to air fed respirator. In some cases I have withdrawn staff from all animal contact pending advice from the OHP. OHP refers onto specialists. In all cases so far the OHP has endorsed my advice and restrictions. Staff who have been seen by the OHP are followed up by me in the workplace on a regular basis to ensure that restrictions and RPE etc are in place but also to make sure symptoms aren't reoccurring or worsening.

Would not report as RIDDOR until diagnosis or occupational asthma confirmed by OH consultant or other specialist.

Spirometry results that are slightly outside normal parameters but not associated with symptoms are discussed with the OHP (with employees agreement) and any further follow up or referral to see the doctor made then.

My experience is (and im sure this is not uncommon) that employees can have quite marked symptoms for years and still show no change in lung function, hence my insistence on annual questionnaires. Hope this is of some help.

 

-----Original Message-----
From: diane romano woodward [mailto:[log in to unmask]]
Sent: Friday, January 30, 2004 2:48 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject: Occ asthma -practical practice