Farm contractor seeks mask advice after asthma attack

A Northamptonshire farm contractor was rushed to Kettering Hospital after suffering a severe asthma attack triggered by inhaling dust from hay bales.

Robert Rutt, 76, woke up in the early hours of Monday (17 March) with a severe coughing fit, and his partner, Christine Mills, found him collapsed and unable to stand, prompting a 999 call.

Paramedics found Mr Rutt’s oxygen levels dangerously low and gave him oxygen before transporting him to Kettering Hospital.

Doctors at the hospital diagnosed a severe asthma attack caused by dust inhalation on his smallholding in Rockingham.

See also: On test: Reusable half-mask respirators – which is best?

He was treated with strong antibiotics and later praised the care he received from Kettering Hospital and ambulance staff.

Reflecting on the incident, Mr Rutt acknowledged his error in not wearing a mask while sweeping hay and straw.

“I hadn’t been wearing a mask, which I now realise was a mistake,” he said.

Now recovering, Mr Rutt is calling on fellow farmers to take better precautions.

“Wear a mask – take care of yourself,” he urged.

He is also seeking recommendations for a comfortable, effective mask to prevent future incidents.

“I want a mask that’s 100% effective and comfortable for long hours,” he added.

Safety focus

Recent findings from the Farm Safety Foundation (Yellow Wellies) revealed that only one in five UK farmers under 40 wear personal protective equipment (PPE) on the farm.

This is despite the fact that agriculture has a significantly higher incidence of occupational asthma than other industries.

“We are eager to collaborate with mask manufacturers to create a product that is both effective and comfortable,” said Stephanie Berkeley, manager of the Farm Safety Foundation.

The organisation plans to focus on encouraging the use of PPE, particularly during Farm Safety Week (21-25 July), which will spotlight lung disease and dust-related health issues.