Industrial Disease Claims > Occupational Asthma claims

Occupational Asthma claims

What is Occupational Asthma?

Occupational Asthma or Restrictive Airways Dysfunction Syndrome (RADS), is a breathing disorder caused by the narrowing of the bronchial airways. The condition is caused in employment by the inhalation of a substance, agent, chemical or dust at work. If you have been diagnosed with occupational or industrial asthma you could be entitled to compensation for those injuries and losses. We have a dedicated team that can provide a free no obligation review and will operate under a No Win, No Fee Agreement, where appropriate. Some common symptoms of Occupational Asthma?

• coughing
• wheezing
• tightening of the chest, and
• difficulties in breathing.

Common causes of Occupational Asthma?

There are many many substances that have been identified as irritants capable of causing Occupational Asthma. The most common irritant being:

• "isocyanates" - a group of chemicals in many paints, polyurethane and foams.
• flour and grain dust
• wood dust
• latex,
• glues and resins.

Are you at risk of Occupational Asthma?

Those most at risk of inhaling these substances include:

• bakery workers
• cleaners
• nursing and care staff
• catering workers
• spray painters, and
• woodworkers.

Prolonged and/or repeated exposure to these group of irritants could result in developing chronic asthma. In this condition symptoms increase in severity over time and are unlikely to be helped by strong asthmatic medication or your removal from the workplace environment.

How should YOU be protected?

Employers are under a statutory duty to control an employee's exposure to fumes, dust and impurities including those that can cause asthma. These duties are now embodied within The Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations. Breach of these regulations can form the basis of a claim for compensation. The rules state:

• employers are required as part of their duty to undertake an assessment of the health risks caused by hazardous substances;
• if they are identified, to take steps to assess the level of exposure and to institute prevention measures;
• if prevention is not possible then to reduce exposure to as low a level as possible and then restrict exposure through implementing systems of ventilation and/or extraction;
• if the use of a substance can not be reduced then employers should provide personal protective equipment.

The Health and Safety Executive estimates that each year between 1,500 and 3,000 people in Great Britain develop occupational asthma. If, you have been diagnosed or you believe you are suffering with Occupational Asthma then you should seek legal advice immediately. Any claim for Occupational Asthma must be made within 3 years of the date you knew or ought to know you were suffering with the condition and therefore it is imperative that you seek advice as soon as possible.