Cases of occupational asthma are greatly underreported in France. This is p
artly due to an inadequate compensation. Problems in relation with the Fren
ch regulation concerning occupational asthma and compensation are analysed
and proposals are made to improve it. Guidelines for assessing permanent di
sability are presented, taking into account the level of bronchial obstruct
ion, its reversibility, the level of non specific bronchial hyperresponsive
ness, and the need for medication.