Why the test is performed
To measure airflow and lung volumes for respiratory health surveillance or clinical assessment.
World time
Laboratory Testing Online / Occupational Health
Occupational Spirometry
To measure airflow and lung volumes for respiratory health surveillance or clinical assessment.Test profileOCOccupational Spirometry
Test and specimen
What is being examined?
- Test
- Occupational Spirometry
- Department
- Occupational Health
- Typical sample or measurement
- Standardised forced breathing manoeuvres
Before the test
Follow instructions on smoking, heavy meals, exercise and inhalers. Acute chest pain, infection or recent surgery may require deferral and clinician review.
Clinical interpretation
Laboratory results should be interpreted by a qualified professional using the correct reference interval, method, symptoms, history and other findings. A normal or abnormal value rarely confirms or excludes a condition by itself.
What the test is used for
Baseline and serial surveillance where workplace exposure can affect respiratory health, and investigation of breathing symptoms.
How the test is performed
After screening for contraindications, a trained professional coaches repeated maximal inhalation and forced exhalation into a calibrated spirometer; quality criteria are checked.
Conditions and diseases considered
May show obstructive or restrictive patterns seen in asthma, COPD or occupational lung disease, but diagnosis requires clinical assessment.
Recommended further tests
Repeat quality-assured spirometry, bronchodilator testing, peak-flow monitoring, chest imaging or specialist lung-function tests.
Primary public reference
Continue with the official patient guide.
COHSEW has summarised this information for navigation and awareness. Follow the source and your healthcare provider’s current instructions for the complete context.
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