Occupational Risk Factors

What Are Occupational Risk Factors?

Occupational risk factors refer to harmful exposures in the workplace such as inhaling toxic particles, gases, fumes, vapours, or dust. These hazardous exposures—commonly called “agents”—can lead to various work-related lung diseases.

Workplace safety regulations, especially in regions like the European Union, aim to limit exposure to known harmful agents. The Scientific Committee on Occupational Exposure Limit Values (SCOEL) helps guide acceptable exposure levels. Still, ensuring safe workplace environments remains an ongoing challenge across industries.

How Work Affects Lung Health

The impact of exposure varies depending on:

• Duration and intensity of exposure

• Use of protective equipment

• Pre-existing health conditions

• Lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking)

Some exposures can trigger immediate symptoms, while others—like asbestos exposure—may cause lung disease decades later.

Common Work-Related Lung Conditions

1. Occupational Asthma

Asthma caused by work environments is one of the most common occupational lung conditions. It can also worsen existing asthma. Over 350 agents are linked to occupational asthma, including:

• Chemicals: diisocyanatos, anhydrides, dyes

• Organic materials: flour, mould, animal proteins

• Metals and wood dust

• Vegetable and plant-derived substances

• Enzymes and biological proteins

Proper workplace ventilation and protective gear can significantly reduce risks.

2. Occupational COPD

About 15–20% of all COPD cases are connected to workplace exposures, including:

• Mineral dusts (e.g., coal, silica)

• Irritant gases or vapours

• Metal fumes from manufacturing

Long-term exposure without respiratory protection increases the likelihood of developing chronic bronchitis or worsening pre-existing lung conditions.

3. Occupational Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is often linked with occupational exposure to carcinogens. While asbestos remains the leading cause, other high-risk agents include:

• Chromium

• Arsenic

• Diesel exhaust

• Silica dust

These risks are elevated in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and mining.

4. Pleural Disease & Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma and pleural thickening are almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. Symptoms may appear decades after exposure, making early prevention and diagnosis critical. Though asbestos is banned in many regions, past exposures still pose a significant health burden today.

5. Acute Inhalation Injuries

Sudden and large-scale exposure to harmful substances can lead to acute lung injury. Examples include:

• Industrial fires or explosions

• Chemical spills

• Exposure to chlorine, ammonia, ozone, or solvent vapours

Immediate medical attention is required in such cases, and long-term lung damage is possible.

6. Occupational Infections

Certain respiratory infections can be contracted at work, particularly in healthcare settings. These include:

• Tuberculosis (TB)

• Legionnaires’ disease

• Measles, Q fever, and SARS

Healthcare workers and laboratory professionals face the highest risk.

7. Occupational Interstitial Lung Diseases (ILD)

Occupational ILDs include a range of chronic lung diseases caused by long-term inhalation of fine particles:

• Pneumoconiosis (coal dust, silica, asbestos)

• Extrinsic allergic alveolitis from exposure to mold, feathers, hay, or humidifiers

• Metal-related ILD from titanium or aluminium

Symptoms often develop slowly, making early detection challenging.

Workplace Exposure and Disease Burden

Long-term workplace exposure contributes significantly to respiratory illnesses:

• 15% of all respiratory cancers in men (5% in women)

• 15–20% of adult asthma and COPD cases

• 10% of interstitial lung diseases

These numbers highlight the importance of occupational health monitoring, regular lung function tests, and early symptom reporting in high-risk jobs.