Is Workers’ Compensation Available for Asthma?

By Darwin F. Johnson on October 9th, 2019 in Workers Compensation

Work-related asthma has become a fairly common complaint. This is due to levels of exposure to irritants that are prevalent across several industries. However, asthma has many possible triggers, and proving that the condition was caused by workplace-based exposure can be difficult. Environmental pollutants and genetics can also cause asthma in some people. Therefore, a frequently asked question for workers compensation attorneys is, “Is it possible to receive workers’ compensation for asthma?”

Can You Claim Workers’ Compensation for Asthma?

In many cases, the answer to this question is yes. Workers that have asthma may indeed be eligible for workers’ compensation payments. Some workers in agriculture, warehousing, transportation, and retail have occupational asthma. However, many factors increase or decrease the risk of developing asthma in every workplace. Check out this video to review common symptoms of occupational asthma:

How Can You Prove That Your Asthma is Work-Related?

To be found eligible for workers’ compensation, your health condition must be directly related to your occupation.

You must prove that:

• You were exposed to asthma-causing irritants due to your employment.
• The asthma is directly related to your occupation or the industry in which you are employed.
• The amount of workers that are affected is much higher in your industry than in the general population.

Pennsylvania workers can also be eligible for benefits if they already had asthma and the job has triggered the condition due to working conditions. Pre-existing conditions are compensable as long as your working environment or activities aggravate them.

Qualifying for Workers’ Compensation

Sometimes it is challenging to prove that your asthma was caused or aggravated by workplace triggers. Occasionally, employers and their insurance companies will try to argue that non-work-related factors such as environmental allergens or irritants are to blame. If you think that your asthma has been caused or exacerbated by your work, you should contact a workers’ compensation attorney as soon as possible for professional assistance with your claim.

Occupational illnesses can worsen over time. For this reason, it’s essential to seek medical assistance and notify employers as soon as you receive a diagnosis. 

For more information on asthma-related workers’ comp cases, contact us today.