3 Ways to Improve Indoor Air Quality and Reduce Asthma Attacks at Work

Did you know that approximately 25 million Americans have asthma? Or that it can cost the U.S. economy over $80 billion annually in medical expenses, missed work days, and mortality?

Asthma can be aggravated by environmental factors at work, such as chemicals, secondhand smoke, and other irritants. And while asthma symptoms may be easier to control at home, it can be more challenging to control triggers found in the workplace.

To control your asthma at work, it's essential to know what can triggers your symptoms and how to avoid them.

The best way to do this is to work with your employer to create a healthy office environment that supports your needs. Here are a few suggestions for exercising more control over your asthma at work:

Avoid Secondhand Smoke

Did you know that workplace triggers like secondhand smoke can cause asthma attacks? And did you also know that smoking increases your risk for lung diseases like lung cancer and COPD, which increases the cost of health insurance for both smokers and non-smokers?

The solution is simple: work with your employer to implement a tobacco-free workplace policy and provide access to smoking cessation programs. This will help reduce triggers for employees with asthma, and it will reduce the risk of lung diseases by removing all secondhand smoke from the workplace. It's truly a win-win.

Avoid Fragrances

You probably don't think about it, but products like perfumes, colognes, aftershave, scented lotions, and scented hairspray can affect the indoor air quality in your building and make breathing difficult for people who have asthma and other chronic lung diseases. It can also irritate people sensitive to certain smells and sometimes even cause headaches or nausea.

If you are sensitive to scented personal care products, let your supervisor know when you're in a situation that might trigger your asthma symptoms. If possible, work with your employer to implement a policy regarding use of fragrances and/or occupant activity.

Prevent Pests and Mold

Asthma attacks can be triggered by pests such as dust mites, cockroaches, and rodents. To prevent asthma triggers, businesses should implement housekeeping policies that include weekly vacuuming and dusting—and storing garbage outside.

Conducting walkthrough inspections of certain parts of the building, including the exterior, indoor spaces, air handling units, and HVAC components, is also a great way to identify areas of potential water infiltration to prevent mold growth, another big trigger of asthma symptoms.

When it comes to health and well-being, no one should have to choose between a job and their health.

There are many simple steps workers can take to improve indoor air quality – and the bottom line is that it's not just workers fighting this battle, but employers as well. By working with your company to promote better indoor air quality, you can help combat asthma triggers and make a positive difference in your community.

To learn more about how you can improve indoor air quality in the workplace, visit safeairsysyemstech.com or follow us on TikTok @safeairsystemstech!