When we think about lung conditions, we tend to think of smoking-related lung cancer or bacterial infections like tuberculosis. However, there are several work-related lung diseases that are very common among certain occupations. As we study the environments around us and how chemicals and particulates affect the human body, we’re getting better at putting systems in place to prevent these diseases. But fully understanding the risks is half the battle, which is why we decided to put together a detailed guide on work related lung diseases, as well as their causes and prevention tips.
What Are Work-Related Lung Diseases?
As their name suggests, occupational or work-related lung diseases are those conditions caused by prolonged exposure to fumes and different kinds of dusts at work.
For many of us, dust is associated with wiping down our surfaces at home. This dust is mostly comprised of dead skin cells, clothing fibres, and some inorganic matter.
Occupational dust, on the other hand, can be made up of a wide number of fine particulates. Depending on the type one is exposed to, there can be a number of different diseases caused by dust inhalation.
Which Diseases Are Caused by Dust Inhalation?
Before we look into work related lung diseases, their causes and prevention tips, let’s cover what the different types of dust are.
Organic Dusts
Organic dust is made of plant or animal matter. This includes the dust in your home, as well as:
- Food particles like flour dust, powdered spices, and sugar.
- Clothing fibres like cotton, jute, or even polyester or nylon.
- Wood dust or sawdust from woodworking.
- Pollen.
- Mould and fungal spores.
Inorganic Dusts
Inorganic dusts are made up of fine particulates of substances that were never part of a plant or animal, with soot being the only exception. These include things like:
- Silicates and rock dust.
- Ashes.
- Sulphides.
- Metal carbonates.
- Asbestos.
- Metal dust.
What work-related lung diseases can they cause?
Asbestosis:
Caused by inhaling fibres of asbestos, Asbestosis is a disease that results in scarring of the lungs. Long-term exposure to asbestos fibres can lead to Mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma:
Previously, Mesothelioma was a rare type of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs. It became more common following the widespread use of asbestos. Over 8-% of Mesothelioma patients develop the condition due to exposure to asbestos.
Image Source: Mesothelioma Hub
Coal Workers’ Pneumoconiosis:
This disease, also called ‘black lung disease,’ is caused by long-term inhalation of coal dust. The tiny particles irritate the lung, leaving scarring. It can eventually leave permanent damage, leading to shortness of breath.
Silicosis:
Caused by the inhalation of silica dust (the dust from rocks), silicosis is a highly common industrial lung disease affecting miners, foundry workers, and those involved in blasting operations. It can also be found in facilities that use stone and clay, as well as glass manufacturing units.
Byssinosis:
While natural fibres are great to wear, processing them can present real dangers. Long-term exposure to dusts from fibres like hemp, flax, and cotton can cause an industrial lung disease known as Byssinosis. Colloquially known as ‘brown lung disease,’ this is a chronic condition causing shortness of breath and tightness in the chest.
Hypersensitivity pneumonitis:
Long-term fungal spore inhalation can lead to hypersensitivity pneumonitis. Mouldy hay, a common cause of ‘farmer’s lung,’ and other sources ‘infected’ with spores can cause inflammation in the air sacs in the lungs, scarification, and difficulty breathing.
What Work-Related Lung Diseases Are Caused by Fume Inhalation?
Workplace lung conditions caused by fume inhalation are significant occupational health concerns. Various industries, including welding, jewellery manufacturing, and the beauty industry, often see workers exposed to hazardous fumes, leading to a variety of respiratory conditions.
Occupational Asthma:
Triggered by inhaling fumes from substances like chemicals, solvents, and metals, this condition can affect workers in industries that include painting, plastics, electronics, and nail treatment.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
COPD is another serious condition associated with long-term exposure to harmful fumes. COPD includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, characterised by airflow limitation and breathing difficulties.
Chemical Pneumonitis:
Chemical pneumonitis is an inflammation of the lungs caused by inhaling irritating chemicals. For example, nail salon workers exposed to acrylates and methacrylate in nail polish and artificial nails can be at risk.
Metal Fume Fever:
Like many work-related lung diseases, this condition bridges the gap between fume and dust inhalation. It is caused by inhaling fine metal particles, often from welding, smelting, or soldering. Symptoms can resemble the flu, including chills, fever, and muscle aches.
How Do You Prevent Work-Related Lung Diseases?
1. Stop Smoking
Smoking can aggravate any lung condition. In order to prevent occupational lung diseases, staying away from cigarettes and e-cigarettes can be a good first step.
2. Use Proper PPE
Make sure that masks, respirators, goggles, gloves, and other PPE are being used correctly and regularly to mitigate the risks of workplace lung diseases.
3. Invest in Fume and Dust Extraction
One of the best ways to prevent occupational lung disease is to remove the dust and fumes that cause it. For this, installing dust and fume extraction solutions is an excellent option.
Looking to Make Your Workplace Safer?
At VODEX, we’ve spent many years at the forefront of innovation when it comes to workplace fume and dust extraction. We’re motivated by keeping you and your staff safe and healthy, no matter the sector you’re involved in.
Whether you run a beauty salon, a jewellery business, or are a small, independent artisan, we can help you protect yourself from the dangers posed by work-lung diseases.
You can view our products here, or get in touch today to find out more.
