When most people think about workplace hazards, they imagine heavy lifting, slips and falls.
While physical injuries are common, research shows that more than 11 million workers in the United States encounter allergens, leading to conditions like asthma and allergies.
Common Workplace Allergy Triggers
You can find allergens in nearly every industry, from healthcare to manufacturing. Some of the most common culprits include:
- Metals such as nickel or chromium
- Epoxy and acrylic resins
- Rubber additives and latex
- Plant proteins
- Mold
- Cleaning agents and disinfectants
- Hair dyes and cosmetic chemicals
- Animal dander
- Certain foods used in preparation or packaging
Common Allergy Symptoms
Exposure to allergic substances can lead to symptoms like:
- Itchy, watery eyes
- Hives and other skin rashes
- Wheezing, coughing or shortness of breath
- Swelling of the lips, tongue or throat
- Sneezing and nasal congestion
Who Is Most at Risk?
While anyone can develop a workplace allergy, certain professions have a higher likelihood of exposure. These include:
- Healthcare workers handling latex gloves or disinfectants
- Hairdressers and cosmetologists working with dyes and styling chemicals
- Manufacturing and automotive employees exposed to metals and resins
- Janitorial staff using strong cleaning agents
- Food service and processing workers handling raw ingredients
- Metalworkers exposed to welding fumes and dust
Prevention and Protection
The good news is that you may be able to reduce your exposure to workplace allergens. The researchers of the 2017 study suggested a few steps:
- Primary prevention: Limit exposure by substituting safer products, improving ventilation, modifying work processes and using personal protective equipment (PPE).
- Secondary prevention: Monitor employees’ health and workplace conditions to identify early signs of allergy development and take action before symptoms worsen.
Without proper prevention, occupational allergies can lead to long-term health issues and may even force workers to leave their jobs or switch careers.
Take Control of Your Health
Knowing your triggers is the first step toward protecting yourself if you work in a high-risk environment like a salon, factory or food processing plant. Allergy testing can identify the exact substances causing your symptoms, giving you and your employer the tools to make safer choices.
Contact ENT of Georgia North to schedule your allergy test today.
