Occupational asthma
Occupational asthma is asthma caused by breathing in substances like dust and chemicals at work. If you develop asthma symptoms when you did not have any before, you may have occupational asthma.
Workplace risks
Breathing in dusts, gases, fumes and vapours at work can cause lung damage and lead to lung conditions like asbestosis, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma and lung cancer.
Some jobs increase your risk of getting lung problems, for example construction workers, wood workers and bakers.
The Health Security Executive has more information about lung health at work, including a full list of high-risk jobs and guidance for people that work in high-risk industries.
Your rights at work
The company you work for should do a risk assessment to understand what could harm you at work and if necessary, how they must control these risks.
If you’re worried about your health and safety at work, talk to your employer, supervisor or health and safety representative. If they can’t or don’t address your concerns, you can report the problem to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
Find out more about air pollution in your workplace on the HSE’s website or at Breathe Freely.
Get support
Our helpline is closed from 1pm on Wednesday 24th December 2025 and re-opens at 9:15am on Friday January 2nd 2026. Our supporter care line is also unavailable during this period. If you have a flare-up of your lung condition symptoms, contact your GP or healthcare professional or 111 for advice. Always dial 999 in an emergency.
