Page 7 - Inspire Magazine 2019
P. 7
Mike and Mel also chatted with other staff over lunch,
while our giant infl atable ‘MEGA-Lungs’ and ‘Face Your
Fear’ virtual reality booth also helped illustrate our key
messages.
Seddon Construction Ltd told us: “We are always
seeking new and innovative ways to help our staff to
protect their health and wellbeing.
We encourage and support them to be fi t and healthy; we
aim to help them enjoy long and productive careers in the
construction industry. Looking after their lungs is part of
that strategy.”
Industrial settings can pose threats to lung health.
Heavy plant or machinery may emit tiny particles of soot
or carbon which can penetrate deep into the lungs, while
exposure to dust or fumes can also cause damage.
Over time, this could lead to lung cancer or other serious
conditions.
Paul Nicholson, of Newcastle upon Tyne, knows all about
building sites – he spent 47 years driving tower cranes.
In 2015 he was diagnosed with lung cancer; and to make
matters worse, he was told it was inoperable.
Chemotherapy and radiotherapy, however, shrank the
tumours. There were no signs that the cancer had spread,
and surgeon Dr Dharmendra Agrawal said he could
remove his cancer.
The operation was a success and Paul made a full
recovery. He even returned to work, lifting huge loads
high above the ground. He said, “I have regular check-ups
now, and so far everything’s fi ne.”
Paul urges everyone to follow safety guidelines to look
after their lungs. The same message applies no matter
where you work.
Mel says, “Our workshops offer something for everybody;
sound advice on ways to protect yourself and information
about early signs and symptoms of lung cancer. If you’ve
any concerns, go to your GP.
The earlier a problem is diagnosed, the better options
INSPIRE 2019
there are for treatment”.
7