An employee who developed occupational asthma as a result of being exposed to the chemical 'isocyanate' has won compensation from his employer.

Isocyanates are widely used in the manufacture of foams, fibers, protective coatings including paints and varnishes, and synthetic rubber. They are increasingly used in the automotive industry, for auto body repairs and in building insulation materials. They are powerful irritants and can sensitise workers who are exposed to their fumes, causing asthma attacks on further exposure.

The employee in this case was a PVC panel maker who worked for a plastics firm. He developed the condition after operating a machine that had not been fitted with an extractor to remove the isocyanate fumes; nor had he been provided with adequate personal respiratory protection. When an extractor was later fitted to the machine, he continued to suffer respiratory symptoms and it emerged that the unit was inadequate and the filter had not been cleaned regularly.

He was subsequently transferred to a different department. Although his condition improved, his lungs have still not recovered from the exposure.

The employee's personal injury claim was settled for £10,000.

The Health and Safety Executive has useful information on occupational asthma.