Spirometry Testing
At Insight Workplace Health, we provide spirometry testing (or lung function testing) as part of our health surveillance programme, ensuring compliance with Health and Safety Executive (HSE) regulations while helping to assess lung function and detect early signs of respiratory conditions caused by workplace exposures. Regular spirometry testing helps employers meet their legal obligations and protect employees from work-related lung diseases.
About spirometry testing
Depending on your industry and occupation, as well as the findings of your workplace risk assessment, method statement (RAMS), and COSHH risk assessment, regular spirometry testing may be required as part of respiratory health surveillance.
This is particularly important in workplaces where there is a risk of exposure to hazardous substances or in cases where occupational asthma has been diagnosed. Periodic spirometry testing helps to monitor lung function, detect early signs of respiratory conditions, and ensure compliance with workplace health and safety regulations.
Respiratory health surveillance
The type of respiratory health assessment required depends on your occupation and level of risk as determined by your employer’s workplace risk assessment.
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Lower-risk occupations: You will only need to complete a respiratory health questionnaire, which assesses any symptoms or concerns related to lung health.
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Higher-risk occupations: If your role involves greater exposure to respiratory hazards, spirometry testing will be required.
What is spirometry and how is the test conducted?
Spirometry is a lung function test that measures how well you breathe in and out. It helps assess lung health and detect early signs of respiratory conditions. Before the test, the clinician will ask about factors such as ethnicity, height, and weight, as these can influence lung function results.
The test itself is conducted using a spirometer, a machine that measures airflow. You will be required to blow into the spirometer through a disposable mouthpiece under the supervision of a trained clinician. To ensure accuracy, you will need to repeat the test a few times. In some cases, a nose clip may be used to prevent air from escaping through your nose, ensuring a precise measurement of lung function.
Spirometry Testing FAQs
Are there any risks associated with spirometry?
Spirometry is a very low-risk assessment; however, in certain cases, you may be advised not to undergo the test, depending on your overall health and ability to perform daily activities. You should avoid spirometry if you have:
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Unstable angina
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Recently experienced a pneumothorax
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Had a recent heart attack or stroke
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Undergone recent eye or abdominal surgery
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Coughed up blood recently with an unknown cause
What happens following the lung function test?
Once your spirometry test is complete, the clinician will assess your results and advise on your fitness for work. If necessary, recommendations may be provided to you and your employer regarding any adjustments needed to help you work safely with respiratory irritants in the workplace. This may include guidance on the use of respiratory protective equipment (RPE), such as:
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Reviewing RPE if it is not adequate or comfortable.
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Not completing the test due to an underlying health condition.
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Advising you to always wear RPE when exposed to respiratory hazards.
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Recommending that you be provided with appropriate RPE due to workplace exposure.
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Suggesting that you maintain a respiratory symptom diary for further monitoring.
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Advising the removal of facial hair or recommending RPE compatible with facial hair for effective protection.
Your employer will be informed of any necessary workplace adjustments to ensure your health and safety.
How Should I Prepare for My Assessment?
To ensure accurate results, please follow these guidelines before your spirometry test:
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Avoid heavy meals for a few hours before the test.
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Refrain from vigorous exercise prior to your appointment.
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Ideally, do not smoke for at least 24 hours before the test.
Following these recommendations will help ensure the most reliable lung function measurements.
Explore our related services
As well as providing spirometry testing for your employees, we also have a variety of related services that will benefit your business and help you to stay within legal requirements. Find out more about all the services below.
Mobile Screening
We have a fleet of vehicles and experienced staff ready to undertake jobs of any size. We undertake thousands of Safety Critical Medicals and Health Surveillance appointments every year, for companies of all sizes and all industries. We are also able to undertake more specialist medicals where required.
Client Testimonials
From fast turnaround times to bespoke support, businesses across a variety of industries consistently benefit from our comprehensive occupational health services. Have a look at our client testimonials to find out more.
If you want more information on spirometry testing, call our team or contact us today.