Can RPE allow workers with occupational asthma to remain exposed to the cause?

No. This study clearly shows the limited role of high-level RPE in the control of occupational asthma from metalworking fluids in those already sensitised. The ABC plot from the Oasys system was used to compare pre and post RPE with airfed helmets donned and removed outside the workplace. Source control is more likely to work. The strengths of this study is that all were exposed to the same metalworking fluid aerosols at the same time, eliminating ambient exposure as a cause for any changes seen.

References

	Ilgaz A, Moore VC, Robertson AS, Walters GI, Burge PS, Occupational asthma; the limited role of air-fed respiratory protective equipment, Occup Med, 2019;69:329-335,https://doi.org/10.1093/occmed/kqz074

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