Bioaerosol in the Workplace

What are Bioaerosols?

Bioaerosols are microscopic biological particles which include bacteria, fungi, viruses, biological material, allergens, endotoxins and mycotoxins. They are generated wherever organic matter is managed, processed, turned, or packaged and may pose a health risk for those working in agriculture, waste recycling, sewage treatment, composting and landfill sites. Within the workplace these hazards are referred to communally as ‘bioaerosols’.

Bioaerosol particles are very small, from less than 2.5 micrometres to 100 micrometres, and as a result they may penetrate deep into the lungs, as well being deposited within the upper respiratory tract posing significant health risks to those exposed. They may cause a range of symptoms including coughing, shortness of breath, itchy eyes, sickness, nausea, diarrhoea and fatigue.

Health Risks Associated with Exposure

Workplace exposure to bioaerosols is associated with an increased risk of developing upper and lower respiratory symptoms as well as increased risk of potential infections and possible diseases, where control measures are not in place.

Employer Responsibilities and Risk Assessment

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and Control of Substance Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 employers have a duty of care to manage the workplace risk effectively by undertaking a risk assessment to identify potential bioaerosol hazards on site and determine the required control measures. This may include the requirement to undertake suitable monitoring using the services of an Occupational Hygienist as required to assist in obtaining information on likely exposure to bioaerosol hazards.

For regulated facilities employers should ensure that any monitoring is undertaken in line with the following guidance M9 - Environmental monitoring of bioaerosols at regulated facilities.

Employers should ensure that health surveillance specifically including, but not limited to, respiratory and skin assessment is undertaken on a periodic (usually annual) basis to detect early adverse effects and establish the effectiveness of existing control measures.

Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)

Suitable respiratory protective equipment (RPE) may need to be worn if workers come into contact with microorganisms transmitted by the airborne route, and the risk cannot be managed using other control measures. RPE close fitting masks (reusable or disposable) MUST be facefit tested to ensure that they provide sufficient protection to the wearer, and employers should consider the provision of alternative RPE where individuals have facial hair.

Further guidance on RPE, selecting the most appropriate equipment, its use, maintenance, cleaning and storage in the workplace can be found in Respiratory protective equipment at work: A practical guide HSG53 (see appendix 6).

Training, PPE and Hygiene Controls

Employers should consider the provision of specific training for staff on the potential risks to employees and consider the designation of risk zones or similar to assist staff in determining when RPE MUST be worn.

The provision of clear signage and guidance, if necessary, on donning and doffing of PPE (some hazards may require the use of additional protective clothing, face shields etc.), the decontamination of equipment, use of appropriate hygiene practices, especially for those undertaking mobile or remote work away from dedicated hygiene facilities will reduce the potential for harm to employees.

Reviewing Control Measures

Employers should ensure that risk assessments and method statements (RAMS) are reviewed on a regular (annual) basis, and undertaken more frequently where there is concern about the effectiveness of existing control measures or where there are significant changes to process, and procedures or following the installation of new equipment etc.

Need Support Managing Bioaerosol Risks?

For further guidance on managing workplace exposure to bioaerosols, health surveillance, occupational hygiene monitoring, or FaceFit testing, contact Insight Workplace Health to discuss how we can support your organisation.