Post-Diwali air quality: protecting site and outdoor workers' lungs

In many Indian cities, air quality tends to worsen after Diwali and through the winter months. Outdoor workers, construction crews, drivers and people in dusty processes carry the highest exposure.

Simple controls employers can put in place

• Check the local air quality index each morning and brief supervisors when it is poor.
• Provide well-fitting masks suited to dust and particulates, and show workers how to wear them.
• Use water sprays and covers to reduce dust on construction sites.
• Move heavy outdoor work away from the worst hours where possible, and allow extra breaks indoors.
• Ask workers with asthma or other lung conditions to tell the medical room so they can be monitored.

Warning signs to act on

Persistent cough, wheezing, breathlessness on exertion, chest tightness or a worsening of existing asthma should be seen by the onsite doctor or nurse.

Respiratory health surveillance

Where workers are exposed to dust, fumes or chemicals, periodic lung function testing (spirometry) helps spot changes early. Your occupational health team can advise which roles need it and how often.

Plan My Health supports employers across India with this. See our factory medical checkups or request a proposal.