Work-related Asthma

What causes work-related asthma?

Work-related asthma is associated with exposure to worksite irritants, allergens, and physical conditions called triggers. Some examples of asthma triggers are:

• Animal dander and insects
• Chlorine-based cleaning products
• Cigarette smoke
• Cockroach droppings
• Cold air
• Dust from wood, grain, flour, or green coffee beans
• Dust mites
• Gases such as ozone
• Indoor dampness and mold
• Irritant chemicals
• Metal dust
• Physical exertion
• Pollen and plants
• Strong fumes
• Vapors from chemicals (e.g., ammonia, isocyanates, and solvents)
• Wood smoke