Missouri Workers' Compensation for Exposure to Harmful Substances

Exposure to harmful substances is a leading cause of occupational diseases in the United States.

If you suffer an injury or illness as a result of exposure to noxious, caustic, or allergenic substances at the workplace, seek legal assistance from a Missouri work injury attorney to make sure you get maximum compensation. Physical contact with a caustic substance may cause serious burns as a result of a chemical reaction. Long-term exposure to a toxic substance may result in health hazards, while exposure to an allergenic substance may cause an allergic reaction. Workers can be exposed to a number of harmful substances at the workplace. Common examples of noxious, caustic, or allergenic substances include carbon dioxide, acids, chlorine, ammonium compounds, fire smoke, engine exhaust, carbon monoxide, bleach, plastics, minerals, paints, and solvents.

Workers may have a physical contact with harmful substances in a number of ways. For example, some workers may come in contact with a harmful substance by mistake. Other reasons for contact may include spills and leaks, employers not following safety guidelines or applicable standards, and use of defective products or materials.

Jobs at Higher Risk for Exposure to Harmful Substances

Due to the nature of the job, certain workers are exposed to a higher risk of exposure to caustic, noxious, or allergenic substances:

• cleaning industry workers
• construction workers
• painters
• mine workers
• workers who do different types of repair works
• forestry, fishing, and farming workers
• workers carrying out inspections
• manufacturing workers
• firefighters

Common Injuries from Exposure to Harmful Substances

Long-term exposure to harmful substances can cause serious injury or death. Some examples include:

• heart problems
• sterility
• kidney damage
• damage to the skin
• poisoning
• asbestosis
• liver diseases
• lung diseases
• cancer
• respiratory diseases
• mesothelioma

Claiming Work Comp for Exposure to Harmful Substances

If you suffer an injury or develop an illness as a result of exposure to toxic substances, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ comp pays for medical bills and lost earnings. Even though you are entitled to receive workers’ compensation benefits, the insurance company may find ways to deny your claim or convince you to settle for a lower compensation amount. In such a situation, seek the assistance of an experienced Missouri workers’ compensation lawyer. Call The Law Office of James M. Hoffmann at (314) 361-4300. We will make sure your legal rights are not violated and that you get the maximum compensation for your injuries or illnesses.