Spirometry, also known as a lung function test, is a quick and painless assessment that helps measure how well your lungs are working.
At Pathways Occupational Health, we use spirometry to identify signs of occupational lung disease, monitor respiratory health, and ensure compliance with workplace safety regulations, especially for employees exposed to airborne hazards.
Whether you’re an employer ensuring regulatory compliance or an employee attending a health surveillance appointment, understanding what happens in a spirometry test can help ease any concerns and make the process more comfortable.
What Is a Spirometry Test?
A spirometry test is a standard lung function assessment that measures:
- How much air you can inhale and exhale
- How quickly you can exhale
- How well your lungs transfer oxygen and remove carbon dioxide
This assessment is particularly important in industries where exposure to dust, fumes, or chemicals is common, such as construction, agriculture, manufacturing, welding, and others.
Who Needs a Lung Function Assessment?
A spirometry test is recommended for employees working with or exposed to respiratory irritants or substances known to cause occupational asthma or long-term lung damage. High-risk industries and materials include:
- Construction, mining, welding, and food manufacturing
- Rubber, plastics, and textile manufacturing
- Substances like isocyanates, wood dust, glues, latex, resins, flour, and rosin-based fumes
Under COSHH regulations (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health), employers are legally required to monitor the health of employees exposed to airborne hazards. Spirometry forms a core part of that monitoring process.
What Happens During a Spirometry Test?
When you attend your lung function assessment at Pathways Occupational Health, here’s what to expect:
1. Pre-Test Questionnaire
You’ll complete a short health questionnaire that asks about your respiratory symptoms, medical history, lifestyle (e.g., smoking), and your workplace exposure to any harmful substances.
2. Taking the Test
You’ll be seated comfortably and given a mouthpiece attached to a device called a spirometer. Your technician or nurse will explain how to:
- Inhale deeply
- Exhale forcefully and completely into the mouthpiece
- Repeat the process for accuracy (usually 2–3 attempts)
The machine records the volume and speed of air you breathe out, giving a clear picture of your lung capacity and airflow.
3. Test Duration
The test typically lasts around 10 to 15 minutes, depending on how many readings are needed for accurate results.
Preparing for the Appointment
To ensure accurate results:
- Avoid smoking or vaping for at least 1 hour before the test
- Don’t use short-acting reliever inhalers (such as salbutamol) for 4 hours prior, unless medically necessary
- Continue long-acting inhalers (12 or 24-hour types) as usual
- Wear comfortable clothing that allows you to breathe freely
What Happens After the Spirometry Test?
After the test:
- You’ll receive a summary of your lung function results
- If required, a fitness-for-work certificate will be issued to your employer
- Results are reviewed by a qualified Occupational Health Physician
These certificates are typically valid for 12 months, depending on your job role, exposure risks, and your employer’s occupational health policies.
If the test detects any signs of respiratory concern, further medical evaluation may be recommended, ensuring early intervention and continued workplace safety.
Why Spirometry Matters in the Workplace
Lung function assessments are a critical part of health surveillance in many industries. They help detect early signs of:
- Occupational asthma
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Lung restriction or airflow limitation caused by dust and chemicals
Early detection not only helps protect your workforce, it also reduces absence, ensures legal compliance, and demonstrates your commitment to employee well-being.
Spirometry at Pathways Occupational Health
At Pathways Occupational Health, we offer:
- Accurate spirometry testing using calibrated, industry-standard equipment
- Qualified occupational health nurses and technicians
- On-site or clinic-based appointments to suit your business
- Fully compliant reporting aligned with HSE and COSHH guidance
- Clear communication with employees and employers throughout the process
We aim to make the experience efficient, respectful, and stress-free, while delivering the results and documentation you need to stay compliant and safe.
Book a Lung Function Assessment
If you need spirometry testing for your employees or as part of a regulatory health check, our team is here to help. We work with businesses across construction, manufacturing, logistics, and more to support safe and healthy workplaces.
Contact Pathways Occupational Health today to book your appointment or request a quote for workforce health surveillance.