Study: Early Exposure to Lung Irritants Can Come Back to Haunt Workers

May 16, 2006
Occupational exposure to lung irritants early in a young worker's career can result in increased doctor visits for lung problems in later years, according to a recent study by the American Thoracic Society.

The study, called "Early Risk Factors for Chronic Respiratory Morbidity in a Young Adult Working Population," looked at four groups of apprentices: painters, machinists, electricians and insulators. All 348 apprentices were in their early 20s in 1988 and researchers evaluated medical records of the apprentices' physician visits from 1991 to 2002.

They found that those workers who developed the worst sensitivity to lung irritants over the first 2 years of employment were more likely to visit the doctor for both asthma and bronchitis in later years. Machinists were most likely to have the worst cases of new sensitivity to lung irritants.

"We know that exposure to irritants in the workplace can change people's lung function later in life, but we can't predict who will go on to develop lung disease," says lead researcher Cheryl Peters, of the Occupational and Environmental Hygiene Department at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. "We hope this study may begin to answer that question."

She noted that this is part of a larger study, which also is recording workers' physical measurements such as lung function. A 15-year follow-up, in which workers' medical records and lung function will be compared, is underway.

Peters noted that painters, particularly auto painters, are exposed to chemicals in paint called isosyanates, which are known to cause asthma. Machinists in the study may have been exposed to chemicals or contaminants in metalworking fluids that could be a risk factor for developing both asthma and bronchitis, she said.

Sponsored Recommendations

June 23, 2025
With the right workplace health and safety training, your organization can reduce risk and protect your employees.
June 23, 2025
This article covers the key steps to build a reliable SDS management program, from organizing your inventory and sourcing updated SDS to ensuring easy access and regular maintenance...
June 23, 2025
It's time to get a bit more granular and start to examine the types of metrics EHS departments should be tracking, starting with lost time injury frequency rate (LTIFR).
June 23, 2025
With the number of lone workers on the rise, here are five facts every employer should know about lone working.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!