A task force to investigate environmental standards in the cockpits of passenger aircraft has been set up by the British Air Line Pilots Association (BALPA).
The Aircraft Environment Task Group (AETG) is requesting that pilots report any adverse health symptoms, to BALPA or the CAA, so the information can be logged and analysed.
Areas of concern include cabin air quality and the long-term effects of engine fumes on pilots; the possibility that poor seating and cockpit design could contribute to pilots experiencing back pain; long-term exposure to constant noise that could cause hearing problems; and the increased levels of cosmic radiation found at high altitude.
The group was initially formed specifically to examine the evidence that repeated low-level exposure to engine oil fumes could prove toxic and cause long-term health problems.
BALPA recommends that pilots report any possible exposure to fumes, as it could compromise flight safety.
The group's remit has now been expanded to incorporate all health and safety aspects of working in an aircraft cockpit.
Source: Flight International
