Whenever someone imagines toxic exposure at work, it usually involves asbestos. And for good reason: asbestos is infamous for causing severe health conditions, including asbestosis and mesothelioma. But while asbestos is a significant concern, it’s far from the only toxic substance putting workers at risk. In fact, many industries expose employees to a range of dangerous chemicals, with only basic personal protective equipment standing between them and massive health risks. Whenever protective gear isn’t present, there will be issues. Today, we wanted to take a closer look at a few of the dangers for Florida workers and let you know what you can do to get help.
Asbestos: The Known Threat
Asbestos, for many, many decades, has been recognized as one of the most hazardous materials in the workplace. Despite stricter regulations in the modern day, asbestos exposure remains a concern, as existing asbestos in old structures doesn’t just go away. Workers in construction, shipyards, and auto repair shops are among those most at risk when repairing, demolishing, or working around old products and materials filled with asbestos. Tiny asbestos fibers can easily be inhaled or ingested, leading to illnesses such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis.
Mesothelioma is devastating because its symptoms often take decades to appear, making early detection difficult and treatment much more challenging. By the time someone learns they were exposed, it may be too late. But while most people are aware of the dangers of asbestos, it’s important to recognize that the conversation around workplace toxins shouldn’t end there. Other dangerous substances—though less publicized—are still lurking in various industries.
Not Just Asbestos: Other Common Toxic Hazards
Although asbestos might grab headlines, many other toxic substances can cause severe health problems for workers across Florida. Chemicals like benzene, formaldehyde, and silica, to name a few, present substantial risks, particularly when proper safety precautions aren’t followed.
Benzene
Benzene is a chemical commonly used in industries like petrochemicals, manufacturing, and even the production of rubber and plastics, and even workers regularly exposed to benzene may be unaware of its harmful effects. A colorless chemical, benzene is a known carcinogen and has been linked to various forms of leukemia.
Because benzene evaporates quickly, workers may unknowingly breathe in large quantities without immediate symptoms. Over time, however, the effects can be devastating, especially for workers who don’t have access to protective gear. Unfortunately, some employers cut corners, leaving workers vulnerable to the long-term health consequences of benzene exposure.
Silica
Silica dust is another lesser-known but widespread workplace hazard. Found in materials like concrete, stone, and sand, silica becomes airborne when these materials are cut, ground, or drilled, similar to asbestos fibers. When silica dust is inhaled, it can settle in the lungs, causing inflammation and scarring. Over time, this can lead to a debilitating condition known as silicosis, which is incurable and particularly hard on the lung’s ability to function.
Silica exposure is also linked to lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, known most commonly as COPD, and kidney disease. In response to these dangers, OSHA has implemented stringent silica standards. Like benzene, silica might be a known risk in a workplace, but not one that employers are willing to shell out money to protect against until something goes wrong.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is frequently used to produce building materials such as plywood and insulation and household products like cleaning agents. Though it’s a common chemical, it’s also highly toxic.
Breathing in formaldehyde fumes or prolonged skin contact can result in severe allergic reactions, asthma, or even damage to the nervous system. Since humidity and heat can exacerbate the release of formaldehyde fumes from products, the risks in Florida may be even greater.
While employers are legally required to provide a safe working environment and adhere to strict OSHA regulations regarding the use of toxins, accidents still happen. When employers cut corners or fail to provide adequate protective equipment, workers are the ones left to deal with the consequences.
If you’ve been exposed to toxic chemicals on the job and are struggling with resulting health conditions, you don’t deserve to suffer. You deserve compensation to help you overcome your issues. At Probinsky & Cole, we can assist with workers’ comp claims and personal injury lawsuits, and we’re ready to fight for your rights.
Don’t wait to take action – your health and ability to fight for compensation are at stake. Contact us today to speak to our team and schedule a consultation.
