Respiratory diseases and risk industries

Respiratory conditions are not simply restricted to workers exposed to chemicals, dust, fibres and vapours, but this article touches upon this aspect of respiratory disease and risk industries.

Likewise, there is no exhaustive list of industries and professions that may put you at risk of developing a respiratory disease over the course of many years, but these are commonly regarded in our experience to be the most likely.

Cleaning

Cleaners deal with disinfectants, polishes, wipes, sprays and other detergents on a daily basis, as well as mixing such solutions into warm water which produce vapours. Any sensitivity to these may aggravate existing conditions or perhaps bring about new sensitivities and eventually, long-term respiratory conditions.

As with most roles that deal with potentially aggravating substances, it is very important that proper health and safety measure are both in place and adhered to to ensure the safety of cleaning staff.

Construction

Dust inhalation can be a danger factor for construction workers, as can solvents, mixtures and industrial adhesives.

Depending on the conditions the worker is physically present in, there may also be a risk of exposure to crumbling materials in older renovation projects – such as asbestos fibres shedding from old structures.

Manufacturing

Factory workers can be exposed to all manner of hazardous substances, ranging from chemicals, solutions, detergents, dust, gases and general humidity which can create or exacerbate respiratory conditions.

Old buildings may also be a factor, where decaying structures contain mould, dust and even fibres shedding from asbestos-related materials.

Textiles

Textile workers can deal with a great variety of materials to make all manner of materials, whether this be for undergarments, upholstery, towels, laundry linens and clothing, and may therefore be exposed to particles and fibres released from produce, such as cotton.

Dyes, stiffening solutions and adhesives, amongst other liquids and detergents may also be routinely part of the textile manufacturing process.

Beware of the limitation period!

Such claims against an employer, past or present, are subject to what is known as limitation – a time limit which begins from as soon as you became aware your condition (often through diagnosis) before seeking legal help.

If you have just been diagnosed with a condition and are looking to take legal action, you should be within the period of limitation. We will be able to advise you on this and give further details upon enquiry.

Further reading

Respiratory disease claims – Oakwood Solicitors

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