Friday August 25th 2023
Many of you may have read about concerns with TXQ and fume events across our social media groups lately. TXQ has been fixed and is in good working order.
It is important for you to feel safe at work. You can always ask your FCM questions to understand better and feel comfortable when flying.
Read on for more information on fume events, and a more detailed link from Cupe is at bottom of the article.
ONBOARD FUME EVENTS
These events aren’t as common as many other things that we deal with on a daily basis in flight, however, they are dangerous when they do occur and pose a serious concern.
Fume events occur when there’s oil that leaks out into the engine and passes through the airplane’s ventilation system, into the cabin air we breathe.
Oil contains tricresyl phosphates (TCPs) which are toxic to the nervous and reproductive system.
Oil fumes don’t smell like oil, but are commonly described as “dirty socks”, smelly feet, foul smelling or as having musty/moldy smell.
Symptoms experienced and severity of symptoms can differ amongst crew members. Some symptoms may not appear immediately, but rather after a few days.
Individual factors such as genetics, health, endocrine function, metabolism and medication can influence each person’s physiological response to fume events. Everyone may not experience the same symptoms, or react in the same way.
Symptoms may include:
Cognitive impairments such as:
blurred vision, tunnel vision, dizziness, light headiness,
headaches,
difficulty concentrating, brain fog
Throat irritation
Nausea and vomitting
Longer term effects may include:
damage to respiratory system and central nervous system,
impaired memory and cognitive function,
weakened immunity
If you have been subject to a fume event, it is important to fill out a Safety report via Coruson, as well as an injury declaration form through Coruson. An entry must also been made in the CLG.
Seek medical help for your symptoms with your doctor, clinic or hospital.
Keep your health and safety committee in the loop by checking ‘yes’ in Coruson on the box to send to HS, and feel free to email us anytime.
For more information please read Cupe fact sheet on fume events.
https://cupe.ca/sites/default/files/0195_hs_fact_sheet_onboard_fume_events_en.pdf
Safe flying!
Your H&S committee
Susan, Jenn, Lisa, Eva and Valérie
You can reach us at: