Formaldehyde and Asthma
Formaldehyde exposure is a recognised cause of occupational asthma and other respiratory conditions. Workers who regularly inhale formaldehyde vapours may develop breathing problems, particularly in workplaces where exposure is not properly controlled or suitable protective measures are not in place. Occupational asthma can have a serious impact on a person’s health, ability to work and overall quality of life.
Symptoms may develop gradually over time or worsen following repeated exposure in the workplace. In many cases, workers notice symptoms becoming worse during working hours and improving when away from the source of exposure, although this is not always the case.
At Thompsons Solicitors, we have extensive experience supporting workers affected by occupational asthma and hazardous substance exposure. Our specialist industrial disease lawyers understand the long-term impact respiratory illness can have and provide clear legal advice and practical support throughout the claims process.
In this guide:
- Common Symptoms of Occupational Asthma
- Long-Term Effects of Formaldehyde Exposure
- Employer Responsibilities
- Claiming Compensation
Common Symptoms of Occupational Asthma
Workers exposed to formaldehyde may develop a range of respiratory symptoms, including:
- Wheezing
- Persistent coughing
- Chest tightness
- Shortness of breath
Symptoms are often worse at work and may improve during weekends, holidays or periods away from exposure. However, continued exposure to formaldehyde vapours may cause symptoms to become more severe over time and increase the risk of permanent respiratory illness.
Some workers may also experience disturbed sleep, fatigue or difficulty carrying out physical activity because of ongoing breathing problems. In many cases, symptoms develop gradually and may initially be mistaken for common respiratory illnesses, which can delay diagnosis and treatment.
Long-Term Effects of Formaldehyde Exposure
Occupational asthma caused by formaldehyde exposure can become a long-term or permanent condition. Some workers may continue to experience breathing difficulties even after exposure has stopped, particularly where symptoms were ignored or exposure continued for a prolonged period.
In more serious cases, occupational asthma may affect a person’s ability to continue working in the same role or industry. Some workers may be forced to reduce their hours, change jobs or stop working altogether because of the impact the condition has on their breathing and daily activities.
The risk of long-term respiratory illness may increase where employers fail to properly control exposure levels or take appropriate action after workers report symptoms. Early recognition of symptoms and reducing exposure as quickly as possible can be important in limiting further harm and preventing the condition from worsening, particularly where symptoms are ignored and exposure continues.
Employer Responsibilities
Employers have a legal duty to take reasonable steps to protect workers from harmful exposure in the workplace. This may include:
- Carrying out workplace risk assessments
- Controlling exposure to hazardous vapours
- Providing suitable ventilation systems
- Supplying appropriate personal protective equipment
- Responding appropriately to reported symptoms or health concerns
Employers should also monitor workplace conditions and review safety procedures where workers report breathing difficulties or other health concerns linked to exposure. Where employers fail to reduce exposure despite being informed about respiratory symptoms, workers may be exposed to unnecessary and avoidable risks.
Claiming Compensation
If you have developed occupational asthma or another respiratory condition linked to formaldehyde exposure at work, you may be entitled to pursue a compensation claim. Evidence showing that symptoms were reported to an employer or occupational health department may help support a claim, particularly where no action was taken to reduce exposure.
Compensation may help cover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, loss of earnings and the wider impact the condition has had on your daily life and ability to work. Medical evidence, workplace records and occupational health reports may all play an important role in supporting a claim.
Obtaining legal advice at an early stage may help preserve important evidence relating to workplace exposure, working conditions and medical diagnosis.
To speak to a solicitor about making a claim, contact our team today.