Many Connecticut workers are subject to working with and around toxic substances. For those who are, company management is acutely aware of the possible dangers and should take every preventative step possible to ensure the safety of its workers. Yet there lies a hidden potential for harm for many workers that does not involve unsafe working conditions.

Health experts report occupational asthma as often seen in businesses where the product itself causes occupational asthma or a byproduct of the manufacturing process produces a toxin. In fact, more than 250 workplace substances have been proven to hold the potential to cause occupational asthma. However, it can also be caused by a worker's exposure to a substance that he or she has an allergic or immunological reaction to but which is not common in the general population.

Of primary concern is the fact that symptoms of occupational asthma, such as wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath and a tight feeling in the chest, are similar to those of other types of asthma or respiratory problems. In some cases, the signs and symptoms will lessen during periods of time away from work, but this is not always the case. Persistent symptoms that do not go away, particularly those that involve difficulty breathing, should be evaluated by a medical professional as soon as possible.

Unsafe working conditions, occupational disease and workplace injury accidents are just some of the issues a workers' compensation lawyer can explain. Although the system was developed to enable a quick resolution to worker injuries to compensate for lost wages and medical bills and rehabilitation, it may be necessary to consult legal counsel to receive full compensation for all damages.