What are Weather Allergies?
Weather allergies, also called seasonal allergies or hay fever, are allergic reactions triggered by weather changes and the increased presence of airborne allergens like pollen, mold, and dust mites. Symptoms typically include sneezing, runny or stuffy nose, itchy eyes, and throat, which can worsen with specific weather conditions like wind or rain. These allergies are usually more prevalent during certain seasons, such as spring and fall, when pollen levels are highest.
Example Symptoms
Weather allergies can manifest in different ways depending on the workplace, the workplace’s environment, and the workers themselves. For places where seasons are prone to changing rapidly and drastically, workers are more prone to experiencing allergies such as the following:
- Runny nose
- Sneezing
- Itchy eyes
- Dry or itchy throat
- Skin rashes
A common example of weather allergies manifesting in the workplace could be an employee experiencing heightened allergy symptoms during the spring when pollen counts are high, or when molds are more prevalent. This season can lead to employees experiencing bouts of sneezing, itchy eyes, and a runny nose, potentially affecting their productivity and comfort at work.
Other examples of weather allergies include:
- fatigue that only manifests after being exposed to certain pollens and temperatures;
- postnasal drip at the back of the throat;
- temporary loss of smell or hearing; and
- headaches that persist even with medication.
Impact of Weather Allergies on Workplace Safety
Weather allergies can have a significant impact on workplace safety, as. symptoms like sneezing, watery eyes, and nasal congestion can distract workers and reduce their focus on tasks. These can also cause major discomfort that can lead to other issues, such as asthma attacks.
For workers operating machinery or performing tasks that require precise attention, allergies can also increase the risk of accidents and errors. With their safety compromised, all operations may be affected as well. This is why it’s important for managers to make an effort to manage workplace allergens and reduce the safety risks for their employees.
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Preventative Measures to Prevent Weather Allergies
To effectively reduce the risk of weather allergies, it’s important for organizations to follow the proper guidelines such as the ones laid out by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the European Union (EU). When reducing allergy risk, it’s best to take preventative measures to reduce the allergens in the workplace. Here are some measures organizations can take to enhance their allergen management process:
Monitor Weather and Allergens
The spring and fall seasons are typically considered “allergy seasons” due to the high count of pollen and other allergens in the air. This is why it’s important for organizations to consistently monitor the amount of allergens in the air. That way, they can give workers proper warning when there’s a high allergen count and require the use of PPE to reduce the amount of allergens inhaled.
Changes in weather can also affect the amount of allergens in the air, which is why it’s best to keep a close eye on weather changes as well. Close monitoring of these parameters will be a great way for organizations to reduce the risk of allergens affecting workplace safety.
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Using Air Filtration Systems
Another effective approach to preventing weather allergies is the use of air filtration systems indoors. High-quality air filtration systems are adept at trapping dust, pollen, mites, and other common allergens that are heightened during certain seasons. This prevents workers from inhaling them, reducing the amount of people that experience weather allergies in the workplace.
Encourage Staying Indoors During Allergy Season
There’s no preventing the higher allergen count in the air when it’s allergy season. This is why, as much as possible, those who experience weather allergies should stay indoors during these seasons. This is to prevent the amount of exposure they have to the allergens, ensuring that they stay allergy-free throughout the season.
Tips for Creating an Allergy-Safe Workplace
It’s important for managers to take steps to protect workers when allergy season comes around. Seasonal and weather allergies can be a huge hindrance to employees and puts their health at risk. Here are some practices that can help you create an allergy-safe workplace for your team:
Regular Cleaning
Conducting regular cleaning is crucial in creating an allergy-free workplace as it helps reduce and completely eliminate common allergens such as dust, pollen, and mold. This includes frequent vacuuming with High Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, wiping down surfaces and work assets that can accumulate allergens, and ensuring proper ventilation to reduce allergen buildup. Additionally, maintaining clean air filters in Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems can significantly improve indoor air quality, minimizing the presence of airborne allergens.
Provide Allergy Relief Medication
Providing allergy relief medication can help employees manage their symptoms effectively, allowing them to maintain productivity and comfort at work. Stocking over-the-counter antihistamines and nasal sprays in the workplace’s first aid kit ensures that employees have quick access to relief when needed. Encouraging employees to take their prescribed allergy medications regularly can also help in preventing severe reactions during peak allergy seasons.
Educate Employees on Allergies & Importance of Self-Reporting
Training sessions can inform employees about how to minimize exposure to allergens and recognize early signs of allergic reactions. Emphasizing the importance of self-reporting allows employers to take necessary measures to accommodate affected employees and maintain a safe and healthy work environment.
Leon Altomonte
