Chemical Exposure Injuries FAQs

What occupations are at risk of exposure?

Workers in these occupations can suffer serious health issues:

• Welders, Plumbers, Carpenters, Railroad workers, Painters, Construction workers, Insulators, Factory workers, Electricians, And many more.

What are the common chemicals that cause health problems?

Harmful chemicals can be found in any environment but they are most commonly found in industrial settings, and they may include:

• Paints, Cleaning solvents, Dyes, Fuels and gasoline, Lubricants

Can I file a personal injury claim?

An injury on the job is not a personal injury claim but rather a workers’ compensation claim. However, when the injury was the fault of someone other than the employer, you may have a case against the individual or business responsible for the injury. This is called a “third party” case, which our Miami personal injury lawyers are fully equipped to handle.

What happens when a worker dies as a result of exposure to toxic fumes?

In such cases, the family can pursue a wrongful death lawsuit to compensate the family beyond the workers’ compensation death benefits they are entitled to receive.

What happens when the injury prevents you from working?

If the injury has prevented you from handling your responsibilities at work permanently, you may be able to pursue permanent disability benefits.

How soon must I bring my toxic exposure case in Florida?

In Florida, your employer must file a notice of your claim with workers’ comp insurance seven days after they become aware of your injury. After this initial step, you will need to provide the insurance company with more information as requested.

How difficult will it be to prove that a harmful toxin caused my injury?

It can be difficult to prove it on your own especially if the injury or disease has progressed slowly. You must prove that the toxin was a substantial factor in caused the injury, and you may need additional evidence gathered from the testimony of experts such as medical doctors, chemists, toxicologists, and so on.

What to do if toxins are present at work?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are several things you can do to reduce toxin exposure at work:

• Substitution – Replacing materials, equipment, and existing practices for less hazardous substances or methods can minimize exposure and the risk of injury /
• Isolation – A barrier can be placed between the hazard and the individual /
• Ventilation – The hazardous airborne substance can be removed mixed with uncontaminated air /
• Administrative control – Preventive programs, adjusted work schedules, and other practices can be implemented to reduce substance exposure /
• Protective equipment – It can help reduce exposure to toxic substances.