Allergic reaction at work: When the workplace is making you sick

Some workplaces expose employees to
a wide range of contaminants.

Sick Building Syndrome is not a catch word from two decades ago that has since been forgotten.

A growing number of employees and workers file complaints about their workplace, saying it makes them sick.

It is common for buildings to expose workers to irritants that can lead to headaches, eyes, nose and throat irritation, respiratory problems and more.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), indoor air quality (IAQ) is “a major concern” because it can impact the health, comfort, well-being and productivity of building occupants and employees.

If a building has humidity or ventilation problems, occupants may be exposed to mold, chemicals, gases, odors, particles and other contaminants.

Here are some common workplace concerns and possible solutions.

The PrintSafe for large
office printers.

Office workers’ nemesis: Dust and mold as well as chemical emissions from office equipment, printers and other products can affect people’s health and well-being. Solutions: Better ventilation, building maintenance and mold remediation, portable air cleaners for offices, source capture air cleaner for office printers.

Salon and spa safety and health: Salon and spa products can contain or release irritating fumes and chemicals that can cause reactions in workers and clients. Solution: More natural products, source capture air cleaners for salons and spas.

Veterinarians’ client conundrum: Animals can trap dander, dust, molds and pollen that can lead to allergic reactions. Solution: Room air cleaners like the ones used for dental labs.

The RAP Series: Air cleaners
for law enforcement agencies
and commercial/industrial use.

Construction chaos: Construction sites often feature high levels of dust, fibers and chemical fumes. Solutions: Personal protective equipment (including masks), good ventilation, portable air cleaners like those used for mold and asbestos abatement.

Evidence protection problems: Law Enforcement agencies often have to deal with packed evidence rooms, marijuana storage and associated aspergillus mold problems, other drugs and chemical fumes. And don’t forget the administrative side of things. Solutions: Good ventilation, proper storage techniques and room maintenance, 24-7 use of an industrial-strength air cleaner for law enforcement agencies.

Many professions and industries can expose workers to irritants and poor indoor air quality.

An effective air cleaner with activated carbon + HEPA + UV filtration can help remove the widest range of contaminants, including chemicals, gases, odors, dust, particles, pollen, bacteria, viruses and mold.

Contact Electrocorp for more information and recommendations based on your workplace and IAQ concerns.