Toxic or hazardous substances are often a factor in many industries, and the field of construction is certainly no exception. Unfortunately, many construction workers are not aware of the toxic dangers associated with the construction industry. As you might expect, exposure to such substances result in many unforeseen construction workers’ accidents and/or injuries.
The information in this post serves two main purposes. First, it brings awareness about the dangers of toxins to California construction workers. Second, it helps workers identify whether a toxin is responsible for any unusual symptoms they may experience. Below are some toxic substances that commonly appear in the industry.
- Asbestos: Despite widespread knowledge about its hazards, asbestos exists in many construction materials. Exposure can lead to pulmonary illnesses and mesothelioma.
- Flame retardants: Many textiles and thermal insulation boards contain flame retardants. Exposure can lead to cancer and disruptions in the endocrine glands.
- Formaldehyde: This substance appears in products such as polyurethane foam insulation, carpeting and plywood. Exposure can lead to serious respiratory illnesses and may even cause cancer.
- Silica: A known toxin, silica appears in concrete, bricks and glass. Inhaling silica dust can cause severe or fatal lung conditions such as cancer and silicosis. In some cases, it may also lead to kidney cancer.
Most people do not believe exposure to toxic substances qualifies as one of the many dangerous types of construction workers’ accidents. As such, they may not know that workers’ compensation will cover illnesses a worker develops from such exposure.
Please consider taking your story to an attorney if you are having difficulty filing a claim based on your exposure and any resulting symptoms. It is your right to pursue your benefits if a toxic substance or other construction worker accident threatens your health or your physical well-being.
