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The developments to combat the most frequently reported respiratory disease in the UK are presented. Occupational asthma is unique in being the only type of asthma, which is readily preventable as per British Occupational Health Research Foundation (BOHRF), which is supporting the Health and Safety Executive in its aim to achieve a 30% reduction in occupational asthma by 2010.

Solvents are used extensively in many industries. There are 3 main routes of exposure to solvents: inhalation, ingestion and eye/skin contact. Only after suitable and sufficient risks assessment the decision to use respiratory protective equipment should be made. It must be CE marked to the PPE Directive and provide effective protection. An RPE programme should be implemented to ensure proper implementation. d

The impact of the increased number of small and medium size firms and the decrease in union membership on occupational health is examined. Government strategies to cut days lost from work through ill health or injury by 30% by 2010 are assessed.

The use of lasers in the workplace should be closely monitored and each laser needs to be studied to identity which absorptive filter would be most useful. Lasers are particularly hazardous as they can cause direct damage to the eye. A technical expert would be able to advise on the necessary level of eye protection. Polycarbonate eye protectors offer protection from ultra-violet and infra-red light and they are also comfortable to wear. The fovea and the retina of the eye have limited healing abilities therefore any damage to these areas could be permanent.

Health and Safety Executive data for 2003/04 revealed that some 31,000 people in Britain suffered from skin disease, which was either caused or made worse by their work. By working with specialists, line managers, and informed individuals, occupational health teams can do a great deal to prevent dermatitis occurring at work.

Health and safety practitioners, environment professionals risks managers and company directors are all expected to attend Safety& Health Expo 2004. The Runaway will offer visitors the chance to see health and safety related products in action. Dramatically choreographed scenes will feature everything from protective clothing and breathing apparatus to life-saving equipment such as gas detectors and emergency defibrillators.

Asbestoes was used for strengthening, lagging gaskets, in fire protection, sprayed onto soffits and steelwork. Fibers, when airborne and inhaled, can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestrosis. Drilling, sanding, cutting, breaking, in the case of ceiling tiles even moving a large number, can generate airborne fibers. Over all management plan should be framed with in a Policy on Asbestos, which forms a component of the organizationEs general health and safety policy.