NIOSH recently posted two documents outlining ways employers can help reduce work-related respiratory disease (.pdf file) and emerging risks (.pdf file) in the manufacturing industry.
According to NIOSH, silicosis, asbestosis, byssinosis, pneumoconioses and hypersensitivity pneumonitis have a higher percentage of death in manufacturing compared with other sectors. Asthma also can be exacerbated by exposures in the workplace. NIOSH said employers should assess the extent of work-related respiratory disease, develop methods to identify where exposures occur and share best practices for reducing them.
To identify and reduce emerging risks, NIOSH recommends employers inventory risk sources; collect and analyze data on potential hazards of agents, processes and new technologies; and publicize proven effective interventions.
