Farming and Respiratory Health- Live longer, live stronger (brochure)

Did you know...

• Long term exposures to agricultural dusts and gases can cause permanent damage to your lungs leading to chronic bronchitis, an asthma-like condition, lung scarring, or emphysema?
• Symptoms of chronic bronchitis and asthma-like condition are observed in as many as 25% of grain handlers and swine confinement workers?
• About 1/3 of grain and swine producers experience episodes of severe influenza symptoms called Organic Dust Toxic Syndrome (ODTS) following high dust exposures?
• Farmers have the highest rate of disabilities from respiratory conditions compared to other occupations even though a large percentage of farmers don’t smoke?

Symptoms of Respiratory Hazard Exposure

• Severe shortness of breath with exertion
• Chronic coughing
• Periodic Flu-like Symptoms
• Sinus Problems and Nasal Drainage
• Chest tightness and wheezing after working in agricultural dust

Common respiratory hazards found on U.S. Farms:

• Dusts - organic dust such as grain dust, hog dust, etc.
• Dust contaminated with Mold and Bacteria is especially hazardous
• Gases - Ammonia and Hydrogen Sulfide from manure and fermentation of silage
• Pesticides
• Other agricultural chemicals, such as Anhydrous Ammonia

Why do I need to use a respirator?

Respirators help prevent dusts, molds, and other hazards from entering your airway and lungs. Serious diseases can result from one-time and repeated exposure to respiratory hazards. Be sure your respirator is the right one for the job!

Respirators must:

• Have two straps
• Fit your face tightly, without gaps around the nose, cheeks, and chin
• Be appropriate for the task
• Be approved by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

Please note, if you have a respiratory or heart condition, you should seek guidance to select a respirator that does not interfere with your breathing.

Which Respirators do I need*?

You must always use the proper respirator for the specific hazard! For example, your dust/mist respirator will not protect you from ammonia fumes, though the two may look very similar.

Your local AgriSafe clinic’s specially trained staff are there to ensure you select the best respirator for your agricultural exposures and your health!

How do I know if a Respirator fits me correctly?

Your AgriSafe provider is trained to do a “fit test” of your respirator to ensure you have a tight seal. They will find the best respirator size and teach you how to check the seal every time you put it on for optimal protection of your lungs!

Facial hair and side burns should be shaved to not interfere with the seal. If the respirator moves off your face when you breathe in or out, it is not a good seal. If you begin to smell vapors or odors, leave the area immediately and get out into fresh air!

Incorrectly wearing a respirator or wearing one for the wrong hazard is as dangerous as not wearing a respirator at all!

How often do I need to replace my Respirator?

Replace the respirator if it becomes difficult to breathe through, dirty, or loses its original shape. Some respirators need to be replaced within 30 days of first use; others need to be replaced based on the number of times you use them. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Respirators should be kept in a convenient location close to where they are to be used, in a tight container or a sealed plastic bag when not in use. They must be protected from dust, sunlight, extreme heat and cold, moisture, chemicals, and physical damage.

To locate a clinic near you, please call:
Phone 1-866-312-3002
or visit our website: www.agrisafe.org