Thunderstorm asthma is a sudden and potentially life-threatening event in which severe asthma symptoms are triggered by windswept grass pollen during a thunderstorm.
Thunderstorm asthma can affect workplaces across Australia. It can lead to multiple employees experiencing respiratory distress at once, potentially overwhelming on-site first aid resources and disrupting normal business operations.
Understanding how to recognise and respond to this condition is crucial for employers and employees alike.
When does thunderstorm asthma occur?
Thunderstorm asthma is prevalent during the pollen season from October to December.
During the pollen season, a mix of unsettled Spring weather combines with high levels of airborne grass pollen.
How is thunderstorm asthma triggered?
As a thunderstorm develops, grass pollen grains are drawn up into the clouds before rain.
The grains absorb water, swell and burst open, releasing tiny particles of pollen allergens, which are windswept to the ground and inhaled into the lungs.
These pollen allergens mostly affect people at risk of asthma and hay fever symptoms.
Who is most likely to be affected by thunderstorm asthma?
Thunderstorm asthma can be a life-threatening risk to a significant proportion of the population, including:
- Children and adults
- Diagnosed asthmatics (one in nine Australians)
- Seasonal hay fever sufferers
- People with no history of asthma or hay fever
What are common thunderstorm asthma symptoms?
Thunderstorm asthma symptoms can escalate very quickly and may become life-threatening. Symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Wheezing
- Persistent coughing
Reducing the risk of thunderstorm asthma
The risk of developing thunderstorm asthma can be reduced by keeping hay fever under control and reducing exposure to pollen. Additionally:
- Stay inside before and during a thunderstorm, particularly when windy
- Keep windows and doors closed
- Follow government thunderstorm asthma alerts and apps
- Keep Asthma Action Plans up to date
- Use asthma preventers properly and regularly
- Carry reliever medications at all times
Workplace thunderstorm asthma first aid
Thunderstorm asthma symptoms can get worse very quickly.
If someone starts to experience asthma symptoms and you have no immediate access to a reliever puffer, don’t wait - call Triple Zero (000).
If there is access to a blue/grey reliever puffer:
1. Sit the person upright
2. Give 4 separate puffs of a blue/grey reliever puffer, through a spacer if available
3. Wait 4 minutes
4. Repeat
5. If no improvement call Triple Zero (000)
6. Continue to give 4 separate puffs of a blue/grey reliever puffer every 4 minutes until the ambulance arrives
Consider keeping an asthma reliever in the main workplace first aid kit, and those kits used by outdoor workers. Contact our Customer Care team about our Seasonal Asthma and Hay Fever module on 1300 730 079 or sales@brenniston.com.au
Workplace benefits of thunderstorm asthma preparedness
While the primary goal of thunderstorm asthma preparedness is to manage acute health crises, there are several additional benefits. These include:
- Improved overall respiratory health awareness
- Enhanced emergency response capabilities for other health issues
- Increased employee confidence in workplace safety measures
- Potential reduction in absenteeism due to better-managed respiratory conditions
Workplace health awareness includes displaying asthma first aid instructions in common areas around the workplace, in order to familiarise people with the procedure in an emergency.
In Victoria, keep up-to-date on monitoring, predictions and alerts at emergency.vic.gov.au/respond.
Climate change impact on thunderstorm asthma frequency
Climate change is expected to influence the frequency and severity of thunderstorm asthma events in Australia.
Rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns may lead to a higher incidence of thunderstorm asthma events, making workplace preparedness even more critical in the coming years.
Extended pollen seasons and increased pollen production by plants are likely to result in more frequent and intense thunderstorm asthma events.
Compliance with Work Health and Safety (WHS) regulations
Employers have a duty of care to provide a safe working environment.
Employer responsibility includes being prepared for health emergencies like thunderstorm asthma.
Consulting with WHS regulations experts, and staying updated on relevant legislation, can help ensure your workplace meets all necessary requirements.
Legislative considerations and employer responsibilities include:
- Adequate provision of first aid facilities and trained personnel
- Regular risk assessments and implementation of control measures
- Clear communication of emergency procedures to all employees
- Proper documentation of incidents and responses
Conclusion
Thunderstorm asthma presents a unique challenge to Australian workplaces.
Risks can be effectively managed with proper preparation and response strategies. By implementing comprehensive first aid protocols, maintaining well-equipped first aid kits and asthma modules, and creating an asthma-aware work environment, employers can protect their workforce and potentially save lives.
Regularly review and update your thunderstorm asthma management plans, stay informed about local health advisories and foster a culture of health awareness in your workplace.
References
Asthma Australia - Thunderstorm asthma - Triggers