Asthma

Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition causing inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to symptoms like coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath. While it cannot be cured, it can be managed in order to minimize symptoms and prevent severe asthma attacks.  

Triggers and causes include:

• Genetics: Having a family history of asthma increases the risk. 
• Allergies: Reactions to allergens like pollen, dust mites, mould and other fungal spores, and pet dander can trigger asthma. 
• Irritants: Exposure to smoke, air pollution, strong fumes, and chemicals can trigger symptoms. 
• Exercise: Physical activity, especially in cold, dry air, can be a trigger. 
• Respiratory infections: Viral respiratory infections can play a role. 

Safety Considerations

Standard laboratory/workshop safety protocols must be reviewed and enhanced to address the specific needs of pupils with asthma.

Different people with asthma may have attacks triggered by different factors so it is important that the risk assessment is tailored for the individual rather than there just being a generic “asthma risk assessment”. The school or college should have a register of all learners (and staff) with asthma with details of specific triggers where known. This record should be regularly updated and accessible to relevant staff.

Almost all triggers of asthma attacks are airborne so sufficient ventilation, either LEV or good general ventilation is key.

Issues to consider in the laboratory/workshop include:

• Dusts and aerosols – especially wood dust in a technology workshop. Ideally use suitable LEV. If this is not available, ensure good ventilation. Damp down dust before sweeping up to reduce the amount of dust that becomes airborne. Avoid spraying aerosols near asthma sufferers. Using a fume cupboard with the fan off when dispensing fine powders can reduce exposure.
• Fumes – This can include paints/varnishes etc as well as soldering fumes in a technology workshop as well as solvents in a laboratory, especially a chemistry laboratory. As above, ideally use suitable LEV (eg fume cupboards). If this is not available, ensure good ventilation.
• Gases – in particular sulphur dioxide (in a science laboratory) can trigger asthma attacks but chlorine and other gases can also be problematic. Use a fume cupboard or reduce quantities (eg microscale) and have good room ventilation.
• Biological materials -: Airborne spores from fungi (such as Penicillium or Aspergillus), small mammal dander, and insect parts are common biological triggers. Use disposable gloves when handling biological materials. Investigate or transfer fungal cultures before they can sporulate. Ensure proper ventilation, especially when animals are present.
• Exercise – unlikely to be an issue in general but be aware of the condition if looking at things such as heart-rate or lung function in biology.