Spirometry: The missing piece of your health and safety programme

Most workplace safety hazards are easy to spot. Others require a more proactive approach to identify and manage. 

Even with standard safety controls in place, your working environment can expose employees to harmful dusts, fumes, and gases that can lead to serious respiratory health issues. In fact, the Centre for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that 17% of adult asthma cases are linked to occupational exposure.

Other common job-related lung conditions include: 

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), often caused by long-term inhalation of airborne irritants.
• Pneumoconiosis, associated with inhaling dust particles and a widespread problem in the construction industry.
• Mesothelioma, a form of cancer linked to asbestos exposure.
• Silicosis, caused by silica dust, which is prevalent in the construction and manufacturing sectors. Silica dust exposure is also known to increase lung cancer risks. 

Spirometry testing plays a critical role in protecting your team and maintaining their long-term lung health. By routinely monitoring your employees’ lung function, you can pinpoint emerging health issues and actively reduce workplace respiratory risks. 

What is spirometry testing?

Spirometry is a simple test that measures lung capacity and airflow. It helps detect the early signs of respiratory issues and lung damage caused by exposure to hazardous substances. The process is speedy and non-invasive: 

• A qualified clinician will visit your workplace to screen your workforce. 
• During the test, individuals exhale quickly and forcefully into a spirometer, which records measurements including forced vital capacity (FVC) and forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1).
• After the screening, employers receive a detailed follow-up report outlining potential hazards and trends, along with expert recommendations to safeguard staff. 
• Annual testing is recommended – particularly for roles involving exposure to respiratory hazards – but you can customise your screening schedule according to risk levels and business requirements.

The benefits of spirometry – for now and the future 

Introducing spirometry into your health and safety programme provides valuable insights into your employees’ current health status. It also helps you implement targeted, effective measures to prevent longer-term medical issues, delivering a range of business benefits:  

• Early detection of respiratory problems. By identifying irregular lung function early on, you can take action before health issues progress. This might include implementing protective measures like enhanced PPE, improved ventilation, or adjusted workflows and schedules.
• Regulatory compliance. In addition to showing a commitment to employee safety and wellbeing, a structured spirometry programme helps meet legal requirements for health surveillance under laws like COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health). 
• Productivity boosts. Spirometry cultivates a fit, effective team by spotlighting emerging health issues and driving prompt preventative action.  
• Cost savings. Early intervention reduces the need for expensive medical treatments and minimises the risk of legal claims related to occupational lung conditions.
• Personal health insights. Employees gain a deeper understanding of their lung function and capacity, empowering them to seek medical support or make positive lifestyle changes.

Making the most of your spirometry programme 

A successful spirometry programme requires commitment from all levels of your business. Here’s how consistency, clarity, and communication can maximise lung testing for your team: 

• Establish a regular testing routine. Include spirometry as part of your broader health and safety strategy, sticking to a planned, predictable testing schedule.
• Put your employees at ease. To gain staff buy-in, communicate the purpose and benefits of spirometry, addressing concerns about privacy or testing procedures in advance. 
• Act on results and recommendations. Use your test findings to improve workplace culture and conditions. Prioritise practical and behavioural changes such as upgrading PPE, installing local exhaust ventilation (LEV), or training your staff on safety awareness and accountability. 
• Partner with a specialist. Working with an occupational health expert offers quality, data-led guidance you can trust. An experienced consultant will manage the programme on your behalf, tailoring industry-specific testing plans and addressing your employees’ most common health concerns. 

Partner with Opus for proven workplace health surveillance

Spirometry testing not only supports compliance with regulations but also promotes a culture of care and safety. Opus provides bespoke occupational health solutions that support your team’s workplace wellbeing, including spirometry, audiology, and health surveillance services. 

To learn how we can help identify risks, prevent illnesses, and enhance productivity, talk to our knowledgeable occupational health specialists. 

We’re here to help at hello@opus-safety.co.uk or 0330 043 4015.