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Employee Advice - What if I think I have Occupational Asthma

First of all, see your doctor straight away.  If they suspect that you do have occupational asthma, they should refer you to a specialist.  If occupational asthma is confirmed, your doctor should, with your consent, advise your employer to relocate you away from the respiratory sensitizer.

Diagnosis of occupational asthma does not always mean you have to leave your job.  Talk to your employer and health and safety representative about other options available to you.  However, if you feel leaving work is the only option; you should make a claim for compensation.


How is occupational asthma diagnosed?

Occupational asthma may be diagnosed:

  • if your asthma is worse during the working week, though not necessarily at work itself or your symptoms get worse after work, or you find your sleep is disturbed during the night;
  • your symptoms may improve when you have been away from work for several days or on holiday;
  • if occupational asthma is suspected, you should be referred to a specialist.


Can I get compensation if I develop occupational asthma?

If you develop asthma because of your work you should:

  • tell your GP that you think the asthma was caused by your work;
  • tell your manager or safety officer and ask to record it in the workplace accident book;
  • tell your union representative.  If you belong to a union they may be able to get you compensation if your employer is at fault;
  • make a claim for Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit from the local Benefits office.



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