Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Practice Test

Which symptom may indicate a worker is suffering from occupational asthma?

1. Skin rash

2. Frequent headaches

3. Coughing and wheezing

4. Joint stiffness

The correct answer is: Coughing and wheezing

Coughing and wheezing are classic symptoms associated with occupational asthma. This condition is primarily triggered by exposure to irritants or allergens in the workplace, such as dust, chemicals, or other pollutants. When a worker experiences coughing and wheezing, it's indicative of the airways being inflamed or constricted—common reactions in individuals with asthma. In occupational asthma, these respiratory symptoms often manifest during or after a work shift and may subside when the individual is away from the workplace. Therefore, recognizing coughing and wheezing is crucial for early identification of this serious condition, allowing for timely intervention and management to ensure the worker's health and safety. Other options, while they may suggest different health issues, do not directly relate to the respiratory symptoms exhibited in asthma. Skin rash might indicate an allergic reaction, frequent headaches could signify stress or other health problems, and joint stiffness is commonly associated with musculoskeletal or inflammatory issues—but none of these are characteristic indicators of occupational asthma.