Compensation for Serious and Fatal Diseases
An occupational disease is an injury or illness caused by the conditions to which a worker is exposed in the natural course of his or her job. Inhalation injuries, chemical burns and cancer are occupational diseases that are associated with toxic exposure. Workers who contract an occupational disease are generally entitled to workers' compensation benefits under Pennsylvania law.
Kenneth R. Schuster & Associates, P.C., knows that it can be challenging to obtain workers' compensation benefits for an occupational disease. There are strict deadlines for filing a claim and you must prove that your illness was caused by your work conditions. Working with a lawyer may improve your chances of receiving benefits. To schedule a free consultation with our Philadelphia toxic inhalation attorneys, please call 610-892-9200.
Did Your Employer Provide Adequate Safety Protection?
Prolonged exposure to toxins may result in serious illness or injury. If toxic materials are inhaled, ingested or come into contact with the skin repeatedly, workers may contract an occupational disease. Dust, fibers, smoke, gases and fumes from the following materials can be extremely hazardous:
- Asbestos
- Coal
- Silica
- Toxic mold
- Lead and mercury
- Benzene
- Formaldehyde
- Pesticides
- Solvents
- Diesel fuel
Workers must have adequate safety equipment when working with or near these toxins. Safety goggles, dust masks, gloves and protective clothing should be provided by the employer. The work area should be properly ventilated and workers should be informed about the dangers of working with these substances. They should also be trained in safety procedures in case of contact with a toxin.
Numerous diseases and injuries can result from toxic exposure, including:
- Chemical burns
- Loss of vision
- Skin disorders
- Brain damage
- Heavy metal poisoning
- Cancer
- Lung scarring
- Inhalation injuries
- Emphysema
- Occupational asthma
There are too many dangerous industries to list, but toxic exposure may be more common to some jobs. These may include coal miners, truck drivers, railroad employees, electricians, cleaners, heating, air conditioning and refrigeration workers, doctors and nurses, construction workers, auto mechanics, factory and mill workers, textile workers, woodworkers and maritime workers.
Pennsylvania Chemical Burn Injury Attorneys
For a free consultation, please call 610-892-9200 or contact us online.
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