HSE issues list of roles where respiratory protection is recommended

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has published a list of roles that have the highest rates of occupational asthma along with guidance on how it can be prevented.

The list includes bakers, vehicle spray painters, solderers, woodworkers, healthcare workers, laboratory animal workers, agriculture workers and engineering workers.

The HSE says: "Simple changes in your workplace can make it a safer place for you and those working around you. Everybody has a role to play - employers, employees, government, industry and unions."

Although it issues separate advice for each profession, there are some general rules that apply to every role and respiratory protection is an excellent way for employees to safeguard themselves against inhaling dangerous fumes.

The HSE says that every year around 1,500 to 3,000 people develop occupational asthma in the UK, rising to 7,000 if work-aggravated cases are included.

It can be triggered by irritants such as chlorine, general dust and cold air. 

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