The air we breathe at work makes some of us sick
Whether it’s indoors or outdoors, air in the work environment can expose employees to irritants and allergens that may be different from those they encounter at home.
Pollutants include industrial or wood dusts, chemical fumes, solvents, pests, molds, secondhand smoke, vehicle exhaust and ozone.
One in 12 adults has asthma, and 21.5 percent of working adults with asthma find that their asthma is worse from exposures at work.
Employers are responsible for providing safe work conditions, including healthy air. Although many laws have been passed to protect workers, problems with air quality on the job are often overlooked.
Improving indoor air quality …
- Regular cleaning and maintenance of HVAC systems, carpets, upholstery and other surfaces can help to reduce the buildup of dust, mold and other pollutants.
- Proper ventilation and filtration systems.
- Use of air-purifying technologies.
- Reducing indoor air pollution sources.
- Increasing ventilation.
The benefits of improving air quality include better health, increased comfort, improved energy efficiency and reduced energy costs. Ongoing monitoring and improvement efforts are also essential in ensuring that air quality remains acceptable.
Source: OSHA
We can help!
Contact OCCMed Director Jennifer Carmack at 731-984-8400 or jennifer@occmedjackson.com to schedule an assessment of your indoor air quality. We can also set up pulmonary function tests for employees at your workplace or in our clinic.
