Occupational asthma is a serious and often preventable respiratory condition caused or made worse by exposure to substances in the workplace. It affects thousands of workers across the UK and can have a long-term impact on health, employment, and quality of life. At Ison Harrison, our experienced industrial disease solicitors are here to help you understand your legal rights and secure the compensation you deserve.
What Is Occupational Asthma?
Occupational asthma is a form of asthma triggered by inhaling harmful substances (known as respiratory sensitisers) in the course of your work. Unlike general asthma, which may be linked to genetic or environmental factors, occupational asthma arises specifically from work-related exposure and often improves when the individual is away from the workplace.
Typical symptoms include:
- Wheezing or shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Persistent coughing
- Difficulty sleeping due to breathing issues
These symptoms may appear during work hours or worsen over time, particularly if exposure continues without adequate protection or medical intervention.
Common Workplace Triggers
Many different industries are associated with occupational asthma, particularly those involving dusts, chemicals, or biological materials. Common triggers include:
- Flour and grain dust (baking and food processing)
- Latex (healthcare and cleaning)
- Isocyanates (paint spraying, motor manufacturing)
- Wood dust (carpentry and joinery)
- Cleaning products and disinfectants (cleaning and care work)
- Animal dander and enzymes (laboratories and veterinary work)
Even low levels of exposure can lead to sensitisation and permanent respiratory damage if the condition is not identified and managed promptly.
Your Employer’s Legal Duties
Under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH), employers are legally obliged to assess and control exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace. This includes:
- Conducting risk assessments
- Providing adequate ventilation and extraction systems
- Supplying personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Offering health surveillance where a risk has been identified
- Acting promptly when workers report symptoms
Failure to comply with these duties can form the basis for a successful compensation claim.
Making a Claim
To bring a claim for occupational asthma, it is important to show:
- That you were exposed to a known irritant or sensitiser at work
- That your employer failed to take reasonable steps to protect you
- That your symptoms were caused or worsened because of this exposure
Medical evidence is essential, and it’s helpful to have documentation such as occupational health reports, witness statements, or details of similar cases in your workplace.
How We Can Help
At Ison Harrison, we have a dedicated industrial disease team with specialist experience in respiratory illness claims. We offer:
- Free initial consultations
- “No win, no fee” funding options
- Access to trusted medical experts
- Personalised legal support from start to finish
If you suspect your breathing problems are linked to your job, don’t delay. Time limits apply, and early action can help protect both your health and your legal position.
Speak to a solicitor today
To speak to a member of our specialist team in confidence, call 0113 284 5000 or fill in the enquiry form and we will get back to you. We offer free initial advice and are here to support you every step of the way.
