Allergic reactions can occur in a wide range of workplace environments, including offices, kitchens, factories, warehouses, healthcare settings and agricultural workplaces.

In some cases, reactions occur because an individual is exposed to substances that should have been identified, controlled or avoided. Depending on the severity of the reaction, the consequences can range from temporary discomfort to serious medical emergencies requiring urgent treatment.

If an allergic reaction occurs because appropriate precautions were not taken, it may be possible to bring a personal injury claim.

How allergic reactions happen at work

Workplace allergic reactions may occur following exposure to a range of substances.

Common examples include:

• Food allergens in catering or hospitality environments
• Cleaning products and chemicals
• Dust, mould or airborne particles
• Latex products
• Animal-related allergens
• Industrial substances or manufacturing materials
• Cosmetics, fragrances or workplace products

In some cases, an employer may already be aware that a worker has a specific allergy. In others, risks may arise because substances are not properly handled, labelled or managed.

Employers' responsibilities

Employers have a duty to take reasonable steps to provide a safe working environment.

This may include:

• Carrying out appropriate risk assessments
• Identifying known workplace allergens
• Implementing measures to reduce exposure
• Providing suitable training and information
• Supplying appropriate protective equipment where required
• Responding appropriately where allergy risks are known

Where foreseeable risks are not properly managed and an allergic reaction occurs, responsibility may arise.

The impact of an allergic reaction

The effects of an allergic reaction can vary considerably depending on the person involved and the substance encountered.

Symptoms may include:

• Skin irritation or rashes
• Breathing difficulties
• Swelling of the face, lips or throat
• Eye irritation
• Anaphylaxis requiring emergency treatment
• Ongoing complications following a severe reaction

In some cases, a reaction may result in time away from work and ongoing medical treatment.

Claiming compensation for an allergic reaction

If an allergic reaction was caused by workplace exposure that could reasonably have been prevented, compensation may be available.

A claim may take account of:

• The severity of the reaction
• Medical treatment received
• Time away from work
• Loss of earnings
• The impact on daily life
• Any ongoing symptoms or complications

Each claim is assessed on its own facts and the circumstances surrounding the exposure.

How our workplace injury solicitors can help

Our Personal Injury team can assist with allergic reaction claims by:

• Reviewing how the exposure occurred
• Assessing whether appropriate precautions were in place
• Considering whether risks were identified and managed properly
• Gathering relevant medical and workplace evidence
• Explaining funding options, including no win no fee arrangements and Legal Expenses Insurance, where available

Every case is considered individually based on the workplace environment and the circumstances involved.

What happens first?

The first step is a confidential, no-obligation conversation.

We will listen to what has happened, explain whether a claim may be possible and discuss the options available.

There is no pressure to proceed, and any discussion can take place at a pace that feels right for you.

Time limits for allergic reaction claims

Personal injury claims are subject to time limits. In most cases, a claim must be started within three years of the allergic reaction or the date you became aware that your symptoms were connected to workplace exposure.

Early consideration can help ensure that relevant workplace records and medical evidence are preserved.

Allergic reaction claims – frequently asked questions

Can I claim compensation for an allergic reaction at work?

A claim may be possible where the reaction was caused by workplace exposure and reasonable steps were not taken to manage the risk.

What if my employer knew about my allergy?

This may be relevant when assessing what precautions should reasonably have been put in place.

Does the reaction need to be severe to make a claim?

Not necessarily. The circumstances of the reaction, the injury caused and its impact will all be relevant.

What if I did not know I had the allergy beforehand?

A claim may still be possible depending on how the exposure occurred and whether workplace risks were appropriately managed.

Can allergic reactions happen outside industrial workplaces?

Yes. Allergic reactions can occur in offices, schools, kitchens, healthcare settings, retail environments and many other workplaces.

Speak to us about an allergic reaction claim

If you have suffered an allergic reaction at work, we understand how distressing and disruptive this can be.

An initial conversation can help you understand your position and what options may be available, with no obligation to proceed.

Contact our Personal Injury team to discuss an allergic reaction claim in confidence.

Contact our Personal Injury team at Clarkson Wright & Jakes on 01689 887887 or at cwj@cwj.co.uk to discuss an electric shock or electrocution claim. 

Alternatively, you can complete our Personal Injury Calculator here.