Occupational asthma is a painful inflamation of the airways, triggered by exposure to something in the air where you work. If you work with certain substances, such as some kinds of paint, or with animals, you may be particularly at risk. A reaction may be immediate, or may take years to build up. Read on for more information on the kinds of substances that can provoke an asthma attack and the kinds of work which might put you at risk.
The TUC’s Asthma web pages, in the Health and Safety section, have guidance, news and advice including an Asthma information sheet, and the relevant chapter of the TUC’s Health and Safety manual Hazards at work. The book Asthma at work, Rory O'Neill (1995) is available from TUC publications, price £6. tuc.org.uk
The Health and Safety Executive website has sections on asthma and latex allergies. HSE has also published a number of free guides including COSHH: a brief guide to the Regulations and Read the label – how to find out if chemicals are dangerous, available online, or from HSE Books, tel: 01787 881165. hse.gov.uk/latex hse.gov.uk/asthma
Asthma UK has information on its website for asthma sufferers and employers/businesses. It also operates a telephone helpline: 0800 121 6244. asthma.org.uk
