How does Lung Function Testing Work?
Occupational health lung function testing, also known as pulmonary function testing or spirometry, is a medical assessment conducted to evaluate the respiratory health and lung function of individuals in the workplace. It involves measuring various parameters of lung capacity, airflow, and gas exchange to assess the functioning of the respiratory system.
The testing process typically involves the use of a spirometer, a device that measures the volume and flow of air both inhaled and exhaled by a person. During the test, the individual takes maximal inhalations and exhalations into the spirometer, following specific instructions provided by the healthcare professional. The spirometer measures parameters such as forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in one second (FEV1), peak expiratory flow (PEF), and other values to determine lung function.