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| Home > Living With Asthma > Asthma Prevention > Asthma in the Workplace |
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Some people who have asthma may find that it becomes worse if they breathe in dust, fumes, or other asthma triggers at work. In some cases, these substances (triggers) may actually cause asthma.
Substances that cause asthma symptoms
The first thing you should do is talk with your healthcare professional if you feel that your workplace may be causing asthma symptoms. Some common asthma triggers include: animals and insects, flour, grain, wood dust, some chemicals, soldering fumes, hairdressing products, stainless steel welding, and reactive dyes.
Other hazards at work that may worsen, but do not necessarily cause, asthma symptoms include:
- Air conditioning and central heating with dirty filters, which may spread allergens
- Cigarette smoke
How do you know if your asthma symptoms are triggered by something at work?
Your asthma may seem better when you are away from work, maybe on weekends or holidays. You may notice that your asthma is worse while at work.
How to prevent asthma symptoms at work
Ideally, substances that cause asthma should be replaced with other safer ones. Together with your employer, consider the following:
- Moving you, if possible, to a different job or location, which will limit exposure to agents that are suspected of provoking symptoms.
- Using masks and protective clothing
- Fitting extractor fans
- Protecting the air you breathe by sealing off any equipment that produces hazardous substances
- Contacting your occupational health department
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