The total volume forcefully breathed out after a full breath in.
Core service
Occupational spirometry testing, explained clearly.
A quality-assured lung-function assessment for use within an appropriate workplace respiratory health-surveillance programme.
What the test is
A forceful breathing test with a workplace context.
Spirometry measures how much air a person can breathe out and how quickly they can expel it. It is sometimes called a lung-function test or breathing test.
The employee usually breathes in fully, seals their lips around a disposable mouthpiece and blows out as hard, fast and completely as possible. Several attempts are needed because technique and consistency affect whether a result can be interpreted.
The volume forcefully breathed out in the first second.
When it may be used
Selected for an identified respiratory risk.
Spirometry may be appropriate where the risk assessment identifies relevant exposure and competent advice supports lung-function surveillance.
Before or soon after exposure starts
Creates a useful reference point where the surveillance protocol calls for one.
Repeat assessment over time
Looks for technically meaningful change alongside symptoms and exposure information.
When symptoms or concerns arise
Triggers appropriate clinical consideration rather than an automatic fitness decision.
Not every exposed worker automatically needs spirometry.
The substance, work process, controls, residual risk and validity of the surveillance technique all matter. Use the workplace and COSHH assessments with competent occupational-health advice.
Technically useful testing
Three layers of quality.
- 01
Acceptable manoeuvres
A full inspiration, a sharp start, sustained expiration and freedom from artefacts such as coughing or leakage.
- 02
Repeatable results
Multiple acceptable blows that agree closely enough to support interpretation.
- 03
Clinical context
Symptoms, health and exposure history, previous results, expected values and test quality considered together.
Results and escalation
A result is not a stand-alone diagnosis.
Abnormal, changing or poor-quality results may need repeat testing, occupational-health review or referral through an appropriate clinical route.
The employer should receive information needed to manage workplace risk and the health-surveillance record. Detailed clinical information remains confidential. No webpage or isolated spirometry value can determine whether an employee is fit or unfit for work.
Where surveillance identifies a work-related concern, the employer may need to review the risk assessment and exposure controls, consider similarly exposed workers and act on competent advice.
Testing questions
The detail employers ask about.
What are FVC and FEV1?
FVC is the total amount of air forcefully breathed out after a full breath in. FEV1 is the amount breathed out in the first second. Their relationship, the shape of the blow and comparison with expected or previous results may all inform clinical interpretation.
Can spirometry diagnose occupational asthma?
Not by itself. Occupational surveillance is designed to identify symptoms or changes that may need clinical review. Diagnosis may require a fuller history, serial measurements or other investigations through an appropriate clinical pathway.
How often should workplace spirometry be repeated?
There is no safe universal interval to state for every workplace. Frequency should be set for the hazard, risk assessment, surveillance protocol, previous findings and competent clinical advice.
Employer enquiry
Request a tailored quote
Scope occupational spirometry for your exposed workforce.
Share workforce numbers, sites, exposures and scheduling needs. Do not include employee health information.