Different types of lung function testing for the workplace

Apr 7
02:00

2022

Georgie Hawthorne

Georgie Hawthorne

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Lung function testing is a way of measuring the amount of air that you are able to breathe in and out. It can help detect breathing problems, such as asthma or COPD, which could cause issues for workers. Lung function testing helps determine how well your lungs are functioning so that any changes can be detected early on. There are different types of lung function tests used in the workplace, but they all have one goal; to keep you safe during your workday.

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There are many different forms that these tests come in.

  • Spirometry is one of them and it measures how much air your lungs can take in after taking a deep breath.
  • Peak flow rate testing determines how quickly you are able to breathe out based off of how fast you inhale through your nose or mouth.
  • Flow-volume curve testing uses both spirometry and peak flow rates depending upon which numbers they get from the test results.
  • Body plethysmography is another method that examines breathing volume within time periods,Different types of lung function testing for the workplace Articles as well as with changes in pressure surrounding the body during exercise.

 

Lung function testing should be done in a quiet area away from distractions so that the test can proceed with accuracy. The measurements taken during spirometry, peak flow rate testing, and/or body plethysmography will then show results about if there is an issue or not present within the worker's lungs.

 

If problems exist, it might indicate that more tests need to take place for further diagnosis for possible treatment options available which could include new medications being prescribed as well as changes made towards creating a safer workplace where workers have less exposure issues with certain substances found throughout. These various forms of testing can help identify potential problems within the lungs or breathing system so that changes can be made in order to prevent future issues from developing.