When people think of a workplace illness, it is not uncommon to think of illnesses that commonly affect many blue-collar workers. This may include asbestos-related diseases, which affected thousands of those working in construction and in naval yards, or those working in the coal industry who are often exposed to toxic gasses in mines or dust that gathers in areas with low ventilation or reduced air flow. While each of these are dangerous, it is important to recognize that illnesses also affect those who work in offices and buildings as well.
If you are working in an area with the potential for getting exposed to dangerous toxins, your employer is required by law to inform you of the potential toxins. It is not uncommon for these toxins to be listed on a Material Safety Data Sheet. This will provide you with not only information on how to properly handle the substance in question, but should also provide information on the toxicity, how it affects a person who is exposed, what first aid options should be used, as well as information on storage and disposal, what protective equipment can and should be used, as well as spill and leak procedures.
Other proactive measures that could be initiated by your employer is to isolate the hazardous material by providing a barrier and providing the necessary personal protective equipment, such as a mask or protective clothing, to assure that exposure is minimal.
If you suspect you are suffering from a workplace illness, you may have several options. First and foremost, you will want to get treatment for your health and well-being. You should reach out to your employer’s human resources department to discuss your concerns and inform them so that the condition can be addressed and no other workers are harmed. And, you may want to reach out to a law firm familiar with workplace injuries and illnesses to see if they can help.
Post Type: Topical