Which Professions And Activities Are Linked To Exposure To Chemical Fumes?

Which Professions and Activities Are Susceptible to Exposure to Chemical Fumes?

There is a huge range of professions in which exposure to fumes can occur within the workplace – some are quite obvious; such as those working in the pharmaceutical or chemical industries, whereas others are less obvious; such as catering and hospitality workers.

Housekeeping and Cleaning

Many cleaning chemicals – even those marketed as ‘green’ or ‘natural’ contain substances that can be extremely hazardous to health. Many cleaning agents are reactive chemicals which react with dirt and germs but can also react within the lungs of those exposed to them. Some can release volatile organic compounds which can contribute to lung disorders and allergic reactions.

Catering and Hospitality

While the risk of lung cancer has been reduced thanks to the smoking ban, those who work in hospitality and catering can be exposed to a range of substances from cleaning products through to gases used in the propulsion of carbonated drinks. When cask ale (real ale) goes through its secondary fermentation within the barrel, it releases carbon dioxide that can build up within cellars and storage areas, so appropriate ventilation is critical. The dangers carbon monoxide can be particularly prevalent in kitchens with large numbers of gas appliances

Healthcare and medicine

Those working in healthcare can be at risk of exposure to a range of chemicals that can be dangerous if inhaled.

Hair and beauty

Some products used within the hair and beauty industry can contain chemicals known to cause serious issues if inhaled; such as irritants within some colouring products and formaldehyde that can still be found in some straightening treatments.

Manufacturing

Depending on the nature or the product or products being manufactured, those involved in this industry can be exposed to a wide range of dangerous fumes; including those given off during manufacturing processes and those given off by vehicles used within the industry.

Agriculture and horticulture

Not only are some of the chemicals used within agriculture and horticulture particularly dangerous if inhaled, numerous natural products can give off noxious gases when left to mature; such as silage and slurry. Dusts and airborne particles can be particularly prevalent within farming and gardening and so preventative measures must be put in place for a range of activities.

Automotive

Working around vehicles can be dangerous from a point of physical risk; being run over or injured by moving vehicles causes large numbers of injuries each year, but greater harm can be done in the long-term through inhaling the exhaust fumes from vehicles that contain not only carbon monoxide, but also residues and gases from the burning of the fuels.

Painting and coating

Spray-painting and powder-coating carries a huge risk of inhaling fumes and particles that can damage the lungs so protective equipment and ventilation are critical.

Mining

Mining often involves long periods of time underneath the earth or in large holes where fumes and particles can build up. Not only is the danger increased by the actual mining of substances, but the use of mechanical machines and vehicles increases the amount of fumes and particles within the local environment.

Construction and demolition

Those involved in the construction and demolition industries have to be particularly careful of the air they breathe as it can be laden with dust and airborne particles as well as fumes from machinery. Asbestos is a key danger within demolition

Firefighting

Firefighters often don’t know what risk they are putting themselves at when entering a burning building or dealing with a chemical leak. Protective clothing and breathing apparatus can significantly reduce risks, but the dangers are not entirely eliminated by these.

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