Is your workplace ‘lung-friendly’?

Many workers have been diagnosed with some form of lung condition, such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which means working in a lung-friendly workplace is key.

Lung disease, according to the American Lung Association, is “one of the most common and costly of all health problems.”

What can employers do? “By making small changes in your workplace environment and providing resources to employees to change behaviors and improve health, you can create a safer and healthier workplace for all employees and see a significant savings in health care-related costs,” ALA says.

Here’s how:

• Reduce the risk of mold and pests by regularly removing trash and making sure break rooms are clean.
• Require the use of any personal protective equipment designed to protect the lungs.
• Create a tobacco-free workplace policy, and provide a smoking cessation program for employees.
• Establish a fragrance-free workplace policy that includes cleaning products, scented lotions, scented candles, air fresheners, aftershave, colognes and perfumes.