Assessment of respiratory ill health in the GB woodworking population
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Assessment of respiratory ill health in the woodworking population of Britain
IRAS ID
150028
Contact name
Chris Barber
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Health and Safety Executive
Research summary
Wood workers are exposed to organic and inorganic substances increasing the risk of respiratory diseases such as occupational asthma, chronic rhinitis, dermatitis, and some sinonasal cancers. Wood dust is one of the leading causes of occupational asthma in the UK, which in turn is responsible for 10-20% of all cases of adult asthma.
Occupational asthma has a latent period and can remain undiagnosed for many years. Evidence suggests the best outcomes are in patients with a prompt diagnosis and early reduction in exposures. This study is important in determining the prevalence of respiratory symptoms in wood workers. Participating in the study will raise awareness of occupational symptoms and promote safer working and may help to reduce absenteeism and better working environment.
Previous studies have looked at workplace exposures in the UK. There is good research evidence for the relationship between wood dust exposure and occupational illnesses from other countries, but there are currently no up-to-date health data examining the relationships between exposure limits and long term respiratory health across wood working industries in Britain.
The study proposed is a cross-sectional study of woodworkers examining symptoms, lung function, exhaled nitric oxide and specific sensitisation (a blood test). This study will be paired with an occupational hygiene study examining workplace exposures. This research presents a unique opportunity to compare respiratory ill health with exposure levels in the work place and significantly improve our knowledge of current practices, respiratory health and exposure levels in the British woodworking industry.
The data will be compared with historical exposure and health data (where available) and this will be used to develop health surveillance models to help reduce future health risks for woodworkers.
This project forms part of the Health Strategic Research Programme (SRP) and aims to address occupational health issues in Great Britain.
REC name
London - Bromley Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/LO/1262
Date of REC Opinion
14 Jul 2014
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion