Do you BREATHE FREELY?

Breathe Freely NZ is aimed at reducing occupational lung disease which causes significant debilitating ill-health and suffering. This initiative has been developed by NZOHS for our industry in conjunction with AIOH and BOHS.

Ko te whāinga o Breathe Freely NZ (Pūkahukahu Mahea Aotearoa) ko te whakaheke i ngā mate ka hua i te mahi, te pūtake o ngā mate nui me te mamae. He kaupapa tēnei i hangaia e NZOHS mō tēnei ahumahi i te taha o AIOH me BOHS.

Breathe Freely – Supporting Healthier Workplaces

Protecting workers from hazardous airborne contaminants is an essential part of creating a safe and healthy workplace. Breathe Freely provides practical resources and guidance to help employers and workers understand, manage and reduce exposure to dust and other respiratory hazards. Our focus is on preventing occupational lung disease through effective workplace controls, informed decisions and good respiratory protection practices.

Practical Guidance for Respiratory Protection

Workplace exposure to respirable dust, including silica, can have serious long-term health consequences. Conditions such as silicosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can develop following prolonged or repeated exposure. Breathe Freely offers accessible information, factsheets and resources designed to support better risk management across industries, including construction and engineered stone work.

Building Safer Workplaces Together

Effective respiratory health protection starts with understanding the hazards and choosing appropriate controls. From reducing dust at the source to selecting and correctly using respiratory protective equipment, every step can help minimise exposure. Explore the Breathe Freely resources to strengthen workplace practices, improve awareness and help protect workers' lungs for the future.

Controlling exposures in CONSTRUCTION

Construction workers are at a high risk of contracting lung disease. Exposure sources include asbestos, silica dust and welding fume.

Controlling exposures in WELDING

Welders are exposed to metal
fume and gases which can potentially cause lung diseases
and cancer.

Controlling exposures in ENGINEERED STONE

Engineered stone workers are at high risk of acute and chronic silicosis if dust controls are not appropriate.

Controlling exposures in MINING

Silicosis has made a re-occurrence in miners resulting in greater focus on controlling exposures and medical surveillance.

HI Management Standard

The Health in Industry Management (HI) Standard self-assessment tool will help you to identify strengths & weaknesses, set priorities & develop action plans to help you to better manage workplace health risks.

Find an Occupational Hygienist

Search the New Zealand Occupational Hygiene (NZOHS) Consultants listing.

Upcoming Roadshows & Latest News & Events

No upcoming Roadshows are planned just yet..watch this space!