Can I Receive Colorado Workers’ Compensation for Chemical Exposure?

 Posted on October 15, 2020 in Workplace Injury

In Colorado, workers’ compensation benefits may be available to anyone who has suffered an injury on the job or in the course of their employment. In many cases, workplace injuries happen because of physical trauma, but this is not the only situation in which you can pursue compensation. You also may be entitled to benefits if you have suffered injuries or negative effects on your health due to immediate or prolonged exposure to a hazardous chemical.

Common Hazardous Chemicals in the Workplace

Depending on your occupation and the industry in which you work, you may be exposed to any number of dangerous chemicals on a regular basis. Some of the most common hazardous substances encountered at work include:

• Carbon monoxide: CO gas can be present in any environment in which fuel is burned, and inhalation can result in poisoning that can be fatal.

• Asbestos: Asbestos is commonly found in building and construction materials, and prolonged exposure can result in mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other respiratory diseases.

• Lead: Lead is used in the manufacture of metals, batteries, aircraft fuel, and other substances, and it can be found in older buildings’ pipes and paint. It can be toxic if it is inhaled or ingested over a period of time.

• Petroleum: Employees in the oil and gas and automotive industries may be exposed to hazardous chemical compounds in petroleum, and they can suffer burn injuries when this flammable substance ignites.

• Pesticide: Farm and agricultural workers may be susceptible to pesticide exposure, which can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system and lead to other serious health issues.

• Acids: Sulfuric acid is found in cleaners, fertilizers, and batteries. Direct contact with the skin can cause chemical burns, and inhalation can cause significant respiratory damage.

Making a Workers’ Compensation Claim for Chemical Exposure

In order to receive workers’ compensation, you do not need to demonstrate that your employer was responsible for your chemical exposure injuries, but you do need to demonstrate that you were exposed to hazardous chemicals at work or on the job and that the chemical exposure is responsible for your injuries or health problems. If you were injured in a one-time incident involving direct contact with a chemical, this may be relatively easy to establish, but if you have been affected by long-term exposure, it can be more difficult. An experienced attorney can help you gather evidence of the chemical’s presence in your workplace and testimony from medical experts regarding the causes of your health condition.

Contact a Larimer County Workers’ Compensation Lawyer

At Hoggatt Injury Law, we know that it is sometimes difficult to obtain the workers’ compensation benefits you deserve. We can help you build a strong case when confronted with an insurance company that seeks to minimize your payout. With our guidance, you can obtain the relief you need for your medical expenses and lost wages. Call our knowledgeable Fort Collins workers’ compensation attorneys today at 970-225-2190 to request a free consultation.

Sources:

https://cdle.colorado.gov/dwc/injured-workers

https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/hazardoustoxicsubstances/