How Toxic Exposure Injuries May Occur on Construction Sites
August 1, 2023 in Construction Accidents, Negligence, Personal Injury, Worker's Compensation
Chemical exposure injuries are one of the most common construction site accidents. Many materials used by the construction industry contain lead and mercury, which can lead to severe injuries or even death. Construction workers use many power tools but are also frequently in contact with toxic substances.
Exposure to these toxic liquids, gasses, and materials can result in severe and sometimes fatal injuries. The hazardous substances can be absorbed through the skin and cause chemical exposure injuries like chemical burns, and these dangerous chemicals in the air can also be breathed in. Construction workers are inherently at risk of these injuries, especially when their employers do not prioritize health and safety.
Below, the experienced personal injury lawyers at Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. explore the different types of chemical injuries and what to do if you or someone you know has sustained a chemical injury in the workplace.
What Qualifies as a Chemical Exposure Injury?
Although broken bones are common injuries among construction workers, chemical exposure on construction sites is also fairly common, as many materials contain harmful chemicals. While there are occupational guidelines in place to prevent these injuries, accidents do happen. For example, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has procedures to help handle and store chemicals, mandating employers to teach their workers how to use them safely. Employers are also required to establish procedures protecting workers to mitigate the risk of chemical exposure. Yet, 424,630 workers received chemical exposure injuries in 2020, according to the NSC.
Some of the most common chemical exposure Injuries include:
- Eye injuries
- Asbestos-related illnesses
- Asthma
- Respiratory problems
- Chemical burns
- Cancer
- Organ disorders or failure
- Birth defects
It is important to note that chemical injuries can vary in the amount of time it takes to develop. Some injuries take seconds to develop, while others can take up to 10 years. Regardless of when you develop a chemical exposure injury, it is essential to contact an experienced attorney to determine if you are eligible to receive compensation for your injuries.
Can Workers’ Compensation Cover My Chemical Exposure Injury?
You may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits if you are a construction worker who sustained an injury. Workers with severe injuries may need more than the benefits provided, and other legal options may be available for compensation. They may be liable if a third party’s failure to comply with the OSHA’s procedures contributed to the chemical exposure injury.
For example, a manufacturer or distributor of chemicals who neglected to disclose and provide warnings regarding the safety risks associated with their product and the necessary protective equipment may be held liable for chemical injuries. This may also be the case for a manufacturer or distributor who failed to warn workers about the hazards involved in operating the machinery or a storage company that neglected to handle the storage of toxic chemicals properly.
Who is Liable Following a Toxic Exposure Injury?
When employers fail to provide their employees with the highest levels of safety, they may be liable, and the injured party has the legal right to file a claim. Construction companies and product manufacturers may also be held responsible if they fail to provide proper safety precautions, equipment, training, or education. Property owners may be held liable for chemical exposure-related injuries when this happens. Injuries that develop years after the exposure date may make it difficult to determine who is responsible, but an experienced personal injury attorney can help you determine if you have a claim.
If you or a loved one have suffered injuries from chemical exposure, consult an experienced personal injury attorney who can provide the guidance and advocacy needed to navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Experienced NYC Personal Injury Lawyers at SPBMCC to Seek Justice Today
Sullivan Papain Block McManus Coffinas & Cannavo P.C. is a reputable full-service personal injury law firm specializing in various areas, including chemical exposure injuries. Our dedicated litigation support teams are committed to vigorously representing clients in matters such as 9/11-related illnesses, personal injury, car accidents, construction accidents, medical malpractice, premises liability, medical malpractice, and firefighter law across New York City, Long Island, Nassau, Suffolk counties, and New Jersey. Contact us today to learn more about our firm or schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.