Spirometry

This is helpful in assessing breathing patterns that may identify conditions such as asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, cystic fibrosis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The test is performed with the use of electronic equipment called a spirometer and administered by a trained occupational health technician.

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The following necessary informationMUST be taken to the appointment:

• Current official photo ID e.g. driving licence / passport
• Details of all medication that is being taken regularly (a repeat prescription form is useful)

Unfortunately, if you attend your appointment without the necessary information; the appointment will have to be rearranged – this will incur an additional cost.

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At the Appointment

Proof of ID will be requested before the audiometry test commences.

The following tasks will then be performed:

• The employee will be asked to complete a questionnaire regarding their medical history and any previous or existing breathing problems/diagnosed conditions.
• The employee’s height and weight will be measured.
• The test will be explained to the employee.
• The employee will be asked to breathe in fully and then to blow out as hard and as fast as possible into a mouthpiece on the lung function equipment, until told to stop. The test will be repeated 3 times to get accurate results.
• Following the test, the spirometer will print off the results; which will be analysed by an occupational specialist to compare the results with average results for someone of the same age, gender and height.
• For this reason, the occupational health technician carrying out the test won’t be able to give you the results immediately.
• Should there be any problems; the employee will be contacted.