The harsh truth is that some Florida workplaces are much more hazardous than others. Some Florida workers are exposed to toxic chemicals on a daily basis, only protected by the protective gear supplied to them. Have you been injured on the job due to improper protective gear or a workplace lax on safety? If so, you have the right to seek compensation through a personal injury lawsuit or workers’ compensation claim to put your life back on track.
Common Toxic Substances
Few occupational hazards are as insidious and widespread as exposure to toxic substances. These materials, lurking in various workplace environments, can have lasting effects on workers’ health, often without their knowledge. Only decades later do some of these issues rear their ugly head.
Asbestos: Commonly used in construction materials for its fire-resistant properties, asbestos exposure can lead to severe respiratory conditions, including mesothelioma, a type of lung cancer.
Benzene: Found in petroleum products and used as a solvent in many industries, benzene exposure is linked to blood disorders, including leukemia.
Silica: Workers in mining, construction, and manufacturing often encounter silica dust, which can cause silicosis, a debilitating lung disease.
Lead: Despite its known hazards, lead is still present in some paints, batteries, and construction materials, posing risks of neurological damage to workers and everyday Americans.
The risk of exposure to these toxic substances is heightened in environments lacking proper safety measures or where personal protective equipment is not adequately provided. Workers engaged in demolition, painting, welding, or handling chemicals without appropriate safety protocols are at an increased risk of toxic exposure.
To combat these risks, employers must adhere to the various safety standards US agencies such as OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) set for workplaces. Employers that do not provide protective equipment or shield their workers from these dangers may be liable.
Understanding Illnesses Caused by Toxic Exposure
The spectrum of illnesses resulting from toxic exposure in the workplace is broad. Workers may develop respiratory problems, such as chronic bronchitis or pneumoconiosis, from inhaling toxic dust or vapors. Cancers, including leukemia and mesothelioma, can manifest after years of exposure to carcinogenic substances like benzene or asbestos. Exposure to neurotoxins can lead to neurological conditions, affecting cognitive functions and motor skills, while skin contact with hazardous chemicals might result in dermatitis, burns, or skin cancer.
No matter the type of illness you suffer from, you deserve compensation. The process of seeking compensation generally involves filing through workers’ compensation claims or a separate personal injury lawsuit. While workers’ compensation might offer a quicker resolution, it often limits the types of compensation available. On the other hand, personal injury lawsuits can address a broader range of damages, albeit with a higher proof standard.
Possible Forms of Compensation:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Punitive damages
Personal injury attorneys have seen it all and can be your compassionate allies on your arduous journey to secure compensation for your injuries. They recognize the physical, emotional, and financial toll toxic exposure can have on the entire family of an affected worker. If you intend to file a personal injury claim for your toxic exposure case, you should not try to take on the system alone, especially not when suffering from the lasting effects of your exposure.
The team at Probinsky & Cole has helped thousands of clients overcome their individual struggles through personal injury claims. If you have been injured at your workplace due to exposure to toxic chemicals, reach out to our team today to discuss your available legal options.
