21 Jun Chemical Exposure and The Workplace

Long term chemical exposure poses a threat to millions of workers across many different occupations around the country. In fact, according to the CDC, an estimated 13 million people are at risk for illness caused by long or short-term, negligent chemical exposure. In the past few decades, guidelines and rules placed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) have ensured that people are able to work in safe environments. If these rules are not followed by companies, serious injuries or even death could occur.

Types Of Workplace Chemical Hazards

Carcinogens – Cancer causing chemicals, such as asbestos.

Corrosives – Chemicals, such as hydrochloric acid, that cause visible, permanent damage or alterations.

Irritants – Chemicals, such as strong solvents, that are not corrosive but cause reversible inflammatory effects on tissue at the contact point.

Mutagens – Chromosome damaging chemicals, such as benzene.

Sensitizers – Chemicals, such as isocyanates, that cause an allergic reaction among a number of exposed people.

Teratogens – Chemicals that cause birth defects, such as thalidomide.

These types of workplace chemical hazards can enter the body in a number of ways, including: inhalation, skin contact, ingestion, or injection. Once a hazardous chemical has entered the body in one of these four ways, the effects can range from short-term to chronic to lethal, depending on the longevity of the exposure or the type of chemical. Common exposure injuries include: burns, rashes, throat or lung injuries, or nerve & neurological injuries.

Companies that violate OSHA rules set in place to protect workers need to be held accountable. If you or someone you know has experienced long or short-term workplace chemical exposure and live in the Lake Charles or Lafayette areas, contact the experienced chemical exposure attorneys at Baggett McCall. We’ll fight hard to get you the compensation you deserve. Remember, choose your lawyer carefully.