Asthma is a medical condition which affects the tiny tubes that allow air in and out of the lungs. The airways become hyper sensitive and can tighten up making it difficult for air to pass in and out of the lung and the chest then has to work much harder. Occupational asthma is a form of asthma which is caused through exposure by inhalation of irritants in the work place. Typical examples of work place irritants can include dust, gas, fumes and vapours as well as animal substances such as hair, small insects or bacterial dusts, cotton, flax and hemp dust such as can arise in a cotton or textile industry and metals such as soldering fumes in a metal manufacturer.

How can occupational asthma be prevented?

The employer is obliged to provide a safe place of work and a safe system of work to include identifying risks and appropriately managing those risks. The employer must also provide appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as dust masks and breathing apparatus in certain industrial environments. The employer at a minimum should provide for the following:

• Ensure an up to date safety statement is prepared
• A Risk Assessment is carried out
• Appropriate control measures are in place
• Appropriate information given to employees
• Health surveillance where appropriate

If you believe you have developed asthma from exposure to any kind of substance in the workplace, please do not hesitate contacting us for legal advice.

Our personal injury compensation claims solicitors

If you have developed occupational asthma caused by exposure to chemical and hazardous substances at work you may be able to make a claim for compensation. It is important you seek advice as soon as possible to protect your legal rights. We believe in putting you our client first and we are committed to achieving the best result possible while all the time remaining sensitive to your needs. Please feel free to reach out to us below and will be pleased to discuss your case and offer no obligation advice.

To contact one of our personal injury solicitors please call 0818 888 555 or WhatsApp/call 087 398 7386 or complete our online enquiry form