Causes of Farmers Lung

• improper storage of crops - when stored without drying, crops heat up and mold grows
• mold generates fine dust that gets past the body's defenses into the lungs
• lungs can usually remove the dust without damage but this exposure can create an allergy
• irreversible scar tissue forms in the lungs

Symptoms may include

• fever, sweating at night
• shortness of breath
• chronic cough
• aches and pains
• depression and weight loss
• weakness and loss of energy
• sudden illness that develops a few hours after handling moldy items

Times of Increased Risk

• when crops have been stored in damp conditions
• during the months when crops are being handled indoors
• dairy farmers are the group most often afflicted

Prevention Inhibit Mold Growth

• store dry bales only
• store in an area that prevents moisture from entering
• use rocks or chains instead of silage to hold down plastic covers
• store silage in airtight silos

If Mold Growth has Already Occurred

• wet down the top layer of silage before removing it
• handle dusty materials mechanically
• use large bales instead of small ones to reduce the amount of handling in confined spaces
• wear a properly fitted NIOSH approved respirator selected for the task if you cannot avoid exposure*

Treatment

• early diagnosis is crucial but because of flu like symptoms this is difficult
• can be controlled not cured
• acute cases can be treated with bed rest and oxygen therapy
• medication can control symptoms in chronic cases

This information was compiled from materials provided by the Farm Safety Association, and is only a general overview of the risks and prevention strategies. For more information on how to protect yourself, please contact the Farm Safety Association at 1-800-361-8855 and request Fact Sheets No. F-009 and F-014.

*3M Canada does have this equipment available. The recommended respirators for use with moldy hay are detailed in the Choosing a Respirator section of this site.