BACKGROUND & PRESENT CASE
A scientific research organisation referred an employee working in a mixed office and laboratory role for Occupational Health advice following concerns about worsening asthma symptoms. The employee reported breathlessness and fatigue after spending time in a laboratory environment, with symptoms improving when away from work. Although no sickness absence had occurred, the employer sought guidance on fitness for work, potential workplace triggers and appropriate adjustments.
OUR ASSESSMENT
Following a clinical consultation, review of medical history and a workplace risk assessment, we identified the following:
- Respiratory symptoms had gradually increased over several months and appeared to be temporally linked to laboratory work.
- Symptoms improved away from the workplace, suggesting a possible work-related or work-aggravated component.
- Recent changes to the laboratory environment included the introduction of new substances, some of which may act as respiratory irritants.
- The employee remained functionally well and was able to perform their normal duties.
Further specialist assessment was required to clarify whether the condition represented occupational or work aggravated asthma.
OUR RECOMMENDATIONS
We advised a combination of medical and workplace actions to support safety while further investigations were undertaken:
- Review and update workplace risk assessments for potentially hazardous substances in line with COSHH requirements.
- Implement or strengthen control measures, including ventilation, containment and safe working practices.
- Review exposure times and laboratory processes to minimise respiratory irritation.
- Encourage the employee to monitor symptoms and identify any patterns related to work activities.
- Arrange onward referral to specialist occupational respiratory services for further assessment.
- Plan Occupational Health follow-up once specialist advice is available.
OUTCOME / RESULTS
- Specialist assessment is pending to determine whether symptoms are occupationally related.
- The employer is reviewing and improving workplace controls as a precautionary measure.
- The employee continues working while investigations are ongoing.
- Further Occupational Health review will take place once additional medical information is received.
KEY LEARNING POINTS
- Early identification of potential workplace triggers can help prevent longer-term health problems.
- Close collaboration between Occupational Health, managers and safety teams is essential in laboratory-based environments.
- Mild or emerging symptoms may indicate developing risks and early referral supports prevention and safe working.
CLINICIAN COMMENTS
“Early Occupational Health input helped identify possible workplace triggers and guided practical steps to keep the employee safe while further assessments take place.”
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE
All personal and organisational details in this case study have been anonymised to protect confidentiality.
