Does workers’ compensation cover allergic reactions?

Workers’ compensation covers an employee’s allergic reaction if the employee’s job causes the reaction and the reaction is serious enough to prevent the employee from working.

Many allergies exist in the workplace, and some can cause health problems for employees. Mold can cause respiratory damage. Asbestos can cause skin reactions, respiratory problems and cancer. Chemicals, such as those found in cleaning products, can cause asthma attacks, and harsh chemicals can cause burns. In the health care field, employees can suffer allergic reactions to latex gloves.

Seasonal allergies are usually not covered by workers’ compensation because they do not cause the employee to miss work.