AsthmaWork-related asthma Preventing work-related asthma
There are some things you can do to protect yourself from work-related asthma:
If you work with something that can cause or worsen asthma, take these steps:
Ask your employer if they can remove the things that cause asthma from your workplace. Or ask if they can replace these things with a safer alternative.
Ask your employer to install extractor fans that pulls fumes and dust from the air. Ask about protective gear that can isolate you (keep you away) from risky substances. For example, your employer could store dangerous chemicals in a fume cupboard. To learn about protective measures for your particular workplace and job, see the links below.
Ask if there is protective equipment (like a mask or respirator) that can cut down your exposure to things that cause asthma. If there is equipment, wear it whenever you need it. Keep in mind that protective equipment won’t protect you completely. For the protective equipment to help, you need to wear it properly. Make sure it fits properly. Maintain it properly. To learn about protective equipment for your particular workplace and job, see the links below or ask your workplace safety manager.
Watch yourself closely for signs and symptoms of work-related asthma. If you notice any, see your doctor right away.
If you smoke, quit smoking now. Being smoke-free is a good way to cut down your risk of getting occupational asthma.
Get advice about how to protect yourself from work-related asthma in your particular line of work:
These fact sheets are from Quebec's "Institut de recherche Robert-Sauvé en santé et en sécurité du travail (IRSST)", a non-profit agency that conducts research in workplace health.
What should my employer do to protect me from occupational asthma?
Your employer has a legal responsibility to make sure you work in a safe and healthy environment. Your employer should:
- tell you if you'll be working with any hazardous chemicals
- provide you with training on safely handling these chemicals
- train you to respond to an emergency, such as a chemical spill
- provide protective gear, like masks and respirators
- offer additional training if a new chemical is introduced to your workplace
Most employers are helpful. If you don't think your employer is doing enough, you can:
Will I lose my job if I complain about unsafe working conditions?
You shouldn’t. According to the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety, employees have three basic rights
- the right to refuse unsafe work
- the right to participate in the workplace health and safety activities through Joint Health and Safety Committee (JHSC) or as a worker health and safety representative
- the right to know, or the right to be informed about, actual and potential dangers in the workplace
Where can I get more information about employer and employee responsibilities?
If you have specific questions about what employers and workers are required to do, talk to the occupational health and safety agency in your area. To find their number, look on this page of contact information for occupational health and safety agencies across Canada.
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