In the workplace, exposure to hazardous substances can pose significant risks to employees’ health and safety. Whether it’s chemicals, toxins, or other harmful materials, prolonged or repeated exposure can lead to serious health conditions and complications. If you’ve been exposed to hazardous substances at your job, it’s essential to understand your rights and take appropriate action to protect yourself. It’s important to explore the process of filing an on-the-job claim for exposure to hazardous substances and the importance of seeking legal guidance from professionals who can walk you through the claim and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Recognizing Hazardous Substances In The Workplace
As a trusted lawyer, like an on the job injury lawyer can tell you, hazardous substances can take many forms and are present in various industries, including manufacturing, construction, healthcare, and agriculture. Below are some common examples of hazardous substances that may be lurking in the workplace.
Chemicals
Industrial chemicals used in manufacturing processes, cleaning agents, and pesticides can release harmful vapors or cause skin irritation upon contact.
Asbestos
Found in older buildings and construction materials, asbestos exposure can lead to respiratory conditions such as mesothelioma and lung cancer.
Heavy Metals
Metals like lead, mercury, and cadmium are commonly found in manufacturing and mining environments and can cause neurological and organ damage if ingested or inhaled.
Biological Agents
Bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms present in healthcare settings or agricultural environments can cause infectious diseases and respiratory illnesses.
Radiation
Workers in nuclear power plants, healthcare facilities, and research laboratories may be exposed to ionizing radiation, increasing their risk of cancer and other radiation-related illnesses.
Understanding Your Rights And Responsibilities
Employees who have been exposed to hazardous substances on the job are entitled to certain rights under state and federal laws, including:
- Workers’ Compensation Benefits: If you’ve suffered an injury or illness due to workplace exposure, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits.
- Safe Working Conditions: Employers have a legal obligation to provide a safe working environment free from known hazards. This includes implementing safety protocols, providing personal protective equipment (PPE), and offering training on handling hazardous substances.
- Right to File a Claim: You have the right to file a workers’ compensation claim for injuries or illnesses resulting from workplace exposure to hazardous substances. This includes seeking medical treatment and reporting the incident to your employer in a timely manner.
Get Help From A Team You Can Trust
Exposure to hazardous substances in the workplace can have serious implications for your health and well-being. If you’ve been injured or become ill due to workplace exposure, it’s crucial to take action to protect your rights and seek the compensation you’re entitled to. Our friends at Rispoli & Borneo P.C. understand the complexities of workers’ compensation claims and are here to help. Call your local law office to schedule a consultation and let your lawyer advocate for your rights and recovery.
