Occupational Health Resources
Information on your rights, HSE guidance, and compensation for work-related respiratory disease + occupational health issues.
Your Occupational Health Rights
Your employer is legally required to provide a safe working environment. This includes:
- Assessing occupational health risks (including air pollution exposure)
- Providing equipment to reduce exposure (e.g., air filters, cabin ventilation)
- Offering occupational health surveillance + monitoring
- Providing information + training on health risks
- Taking action if health problems develop
You have the right to report occupational health concerns without fear of retaliation:
- Report to your employer's health + safety representative
- Report to the HSE (Health + Safety Executive)
- Report anonymously via the HSE hotline
- You cannot be punished for reporting in good faith
If you develop work-related health problems, you may be entitled to:
- Occupational health assessments + surveillance
- Medical support + treatment through your employer's occupational health service
- Reasonable adjustments to your work (e.g., different routes, reduced hours)
- Time off for medical appointments
- Compensation for work-related illness (in some cases)
HSE Guidance + Resources
The HSE provides comprehensive guidance on occupational lung diseases, including diesel lung disease, silicosis, asbestosis, + occupational asthma.
HSE Occupational Lung DiseaseHSE guidance on air quality in vehicles, exposure limits, + control measures for professional drivers.
HSE Air Quality GuidanceHSE guidance on fitness to drive, medical conditions, + occupational health for professional drivers.
HSE Driving + HealthCompensation for Work-Related Illness
If you've developed a work-related lung disease, you may be entitled to Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB).
Qualifying conditions:
- Occupational asthma
- Silicosis
- Asbestosis
- Byssinosis
- Extrinsic allergic alveolitis
- Mesothelioma
To claim, you need to prove the condition is work-related + has caused a degree of disability.
IIDB InformationIf you've developed work-related respiratory disease due to your employer's negligence, you may be able to claim compensation through a personal injury claim.
You may have a claim if:
- Your employer failed to assess occupational health risks
- Your employer failed to provide safe equipment or working conditions
- Your employer failed to provide information or training on health risks
- You developed respiratory disease as a result of this negligence
Speak to an employment solicitor or trade union representative for advice on your specific situation.
If you're unable to work due to work-related respiratory disease, you may be entitled to:
- Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) from your employer
- Employment + Support Allowance (ESA) from the government
- Personal Independence Payment (PIP) if your condition affects your daily life
Support Organizations
Provides information, support, + resources for people with asthma + other lung conditions. Can help with occupational health issues.
Report occupational health concerns, access guidance, + get support on workplace safety.
Free advice on employment rights, health + safety, + dispute resolution.
If you're a trade union member, your representative can help with occupational health issues + compensation claims.
Major unions representing drivers include Unite, GMB, + Unison.
Free advice on benefits, employment rights, + how to access compensation.
This information is for guidance only + does not constitute legal advice. If you believe you have a work-related respiratory disease or occupational health issue, please:
- Contact your GP or occupational health service for medical assessment
- Report your concern to your employer + health + safety representative
- Seek advice from ACAS, Citizens Advice, or a solicitor
- Contact your trade union representative if applicable