Asthma can also be a problem for roofers. As part of the sealing process, roofers now use polyurethane foam, which can provoke asthma. The same material in paints is the reason why auto-body shops are home to the largest number of work-place-induced asthma cases in the United States, Canada and United Kingdom, according to Beckett. He says that most shop operators know the risks and have installed special ventilation systems and wear respirators.
In addition to such patients, Beckett says that nearly every pulmonary physician in the North, where asbestos was once used widely to insulate houses and pipes, has patients who are now developing asbestos-related lung diseases. These patients make up the best-known group of people who have permanent lung injury from their work. Such workers are at much higher risk of developing lung cancer or fibrosis, where the lungs become hard and aren't able to absorb oxygen efficiently.
Other lines of work that put workers at higher risk of respiratory disease include:
. Farm work. Farmers are susceptible to "silo filler's disease," caused by freshly stored hay that gives off a gas that can be dangerous. Agriculture workers are also prone to developing allergies to molds that grow in hay bales.
. The seafood industry. Crabs and other crustaceans can cause asthma.
. The food industry. Mites and fungi often piggyback onto food dust and can infiltrate the lungs, causing allergies and asthma.
. Hospitals. The chemicals used to sterilize instruments can sometimes cause allergies.
. Janitorial services. Custodians can be exposed to dangerous gases if they mix bleach with common detergents.
. Manufacturing. Cleaning products, paints and other chemicals can cause allergies and asthma.
. Tool Fabrication. The grinding releases pa
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Contact: Tom Rickey
trickey@admin.rochester.edu
716-275-7954
University of Rochester
8-Feb-2000