Managing asthma in the workplace

For those working in the mining, manufacturing and food and beverage industries, employee health is crucial to safety and productivity in the workplace. In these occupations, the work environment can result in ‘occupational asthma’. In particular, air quality can be problematic and is just one of the triggers for an asthma attack - which can happen at any time.

Asthma affects one in 10 Australians and is a condition of the airways.The nature of mining, for example, carries hazards like mine dust, diesel fumes and chemicals that can trigger asthma attacks. Adults in coalmining industries have been found to have higher rates of asthma and respiratory symptoms due to these air pollutants and particle material.

However, it is also important that people understand that the environment is not the only cause of asthma-related problems. Asthma patients and their employers should focus on best-practice asthma self-management and implement an asthma action plan to better manage asthma symptoms and reduce the severity of an attack.

“While many people have their asthma under control, there are still many others that do not and may think that they do. This is a wake-up call to people whose work is impacted by asthma, as well as their employers,” said Mark Brooke, CEO, Asthma Australia.

A new report by Asthma Australia, titled ‘Live, Love, Play’, studied 1060 respondents with poor asthma control. It highlighted that 56% of people with uncontrolled asthma in paid employment take asthma-related time off work at least once a year, and almost one in five (18%) take time off every two months or more .

“The latest research shows that although people may believe that they are controlling their asthma, in reality, symptoms can get in the way of Australian workers completing tasks and can impact on their career prospects,” said Brooke.

“This is also a problem for our economic productivity, with nearly one in three people with asthma working below their best levels.”

The report also revealed the effects that uncontrolled asthma can have on absenteeism and career progression, as well as lost productivity and skills in the workplace.

With more than half of Australians who have uncontrolled asthma taking time off work each year because of their symptoms, it is no surprise that many people acknowledge that asthma has affected their career or work performance.

“It’s important for those with asthma to feel comfortable when having a conversation with their employer and colleagues about their asthma. Asking a GP ‘Could I do better with my asthma?’ and ensuring they have a treatment plan with the right medication can give all asthma patients more confidence at work,” said Brooke.

Asthma Australia works directly with industrial organisations to develop communication and risk management plans. These help to raise awareness of the issues people with asthma face in workplaces and within the community.

To find out more about Asthma Australia’s free Asthma Assist service and Asthma First Aid training for your workplace call 1800ASTHMA or visit asthmaaustralia.org.au.

Mark Brooke was appointed CEO of Asthma Australia in April 2013. He has a comprehensive understanding of workforce development strategies and organisation reform.

Asthma Australia is the recognised national community voice of Australians with asthma and linked conditions and their carers. Its vision is to free the community of asthma with a mission of working together to help people breathe better. Asthma Australia works to provide asthma information, training and advocacy in the community and to promote research.