Asthma & Allergies in the Workplace

Millions of people suffer from allergies caused by every day exposures to agents such as dust mites, cat dander, and pollens. Agents encountered by workers can also cause allergic problems such as asthma, nasal and sinus allergies, hives, and even severe anaphylactic reactions. Examples of these work-related agents include animal proteins, enzymes, flour, natural rubber latex, and certain reactive chemicals.

NIOSH Safety and Health Topic: Asthma and Allergies

Provides links to NIOSH publications and surveillance information on occupational asthma and allergies, including information on agricultural workers, Diisocyanates, and animal handling.

NIOSH Safety and Health Topic: Occupational Latex Allergies

Provides information for health care and other workers on allergic reactions from Latex gloves.

NIOSH Safety and Health Topic: Indoor Environmental Quality

Includes information on air quality and other factors that may contribute to health complaints by building occupants.

NIOSH Safety and Health Topic: Skin Exposures and Effects

Includes information on allergic and irritant Dermatitis and other occupational skin conditions.

NIOSH Safety and Health Topic: Isocyanates

Provides links to NIOSH publications, Health Hazard Evaluations, and analytical and sampling methods for isocyantes.

NIOSH Safety and Health Topic: Spirometry

Provides links to guidance documents for employers and individual workers regarding spirometry screening, testing, and surveillance.