When people think about exposure to toxic materials, they often think of harsh chemicals. However, the reality is that this type of exposure is not limited to laboratories. Several jobs are at risk of exposure to toxic materials.
Substances such as ammonia, chlorine, and even asbestos can cause toxic exposure if inhaled directly or in large quantities. If this is your case, you are entitled to workers’ compensation.
Your employer’s responsibility
Employers are responsible for handling hazardous materials in accordance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations.
Any chemical manufacturer or transporter must assess the risks of the material they work with, provide appropriate labels, and train their employees on its handling.
Employers who store toxic materials in the work environment must properly label them and train employees in their safe handling.
Employers must identify and evaluate respiratory risks in the workplace and follow the regulations of the Act.
Workers are exposed to toxins and dangerous chemicals on a daily basis, which can result in various types of injuries or illnesses, some of them fatal. These toxic substances can take various forms: gases, liquids, solids, and suspended particles.
The most common toxic materials include asbestos, mercury, lead, ammonia, benzene, and others. The main routes of exposure to the body are usually inhalation, contact with the skin (or eyes), and ingestion.
Main conditions of exposure to toxic materials
Injuries or illnesses resulting from exposure to toxic materials vary depending on the type and duration of exposure, but generally may include:
- Neurological damage.
- Burns.
- Skin irritations.
- Cancer and leukemia.
- Asthma.
- Sight loss.
- Neurological disorders, such as Parkinson’s.
- Headaches, nausea and dizziness.
It is essential that employees affected by any of these illnesses or injuries receive the compensation they deserve. At Meline & Vargas, APC, we believe that you should receive the necessary support to face medical and personal expenses.
It doesn’t matter if your employer has taken all necessary measures; That does not prevent you from presenting your case for injury compensation. Keep in mind that the workers’ compensation system is no-fault; recovery is not based on guilt.
