Guidance on Spirometry

Spirometry is a common type of pulmonary function test (PFT) that measures how well a person can move air in and out of their lungs. In occupational settings, spirometry can be used to establish a baseline before assigning a worker to job tasks that are physically demanding, that require use of a respirator, or that may expose the worker to respiratory hazards. It is also used to track lung function over time and to evaluate workers who experience signs or symptoms of respiratory disease.
OSHA-NIOSH Info Sheet: Maximize Your Spirometry Screening and Surveillance Resources [PDF - 375.36 KB]

Inhalation of some dusts, gases, or other air contaminants in your workplace as well as some personal exposures, such as cigarette smoking, can harm your lungs. Spirometry testing (a type of pulmonary or lung function test) may identify breathing problems early, which may prevent more serious problems. Spirometry testing is required for some workers by OSHA standards (see Screening and Surveillance: A Guide to OSHA Standards at: https://www.osha.gov/Publications/osha3162.pdf [PDF - 365 KB]).