Suffering an injury from a hazardous material at your workplace in California can be a traumatic experience. It does not only cause physical injuries but also emotional stress, financial difficulties, and uncertainty about the future. The causes may include chemical spills, poor safety measures, or improper handling of toxic substances.
The legal steps you take following your accident can determine whether you will receive high compensation. Things like the type of injury, the medical treatment required, and the unique circumstances of your accident will determine your legal steps. However, some things like getting prompt medical attention are of utter importance.
It is important to hire an attorney from the Oaks Law Firm who specializes in workplace injuries and environmental hazards. They can offer expert legal advice and ensure that you are taking the right steps. They can also negotiate with the insurance companies and advocate for fair compensation.
What is meant by hazardous materials?
According to the state laws in California, hazardous materials are referred to those substances that have the potential to cause harm to humans, animals or the environment. This can include chemicals as well as radioactive substances and biological agents.
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), hazardous materials are anything that pose health risks, such as carcinogens, corrosives, and chemicals. These may release harmful dusts, gasses, or vapors during handling and storage.
Which industries are most at risk?
Certain industries are more at risk of creating harmful effects of chemicals. These may include the following:
- Manufacturing: During the manufacturing process, the workers are constantly exposed to harmful chemicals and metals. This prolonged period of exposure can cause long-term health effects.
- Healthcare: Healthcare workers, particularly those working in hospitals, are exposed to biological agents such as virus and bacteria, and hazardous pharmaceuticals.
- Construction: The construction industry is among the most dangerous for the employees. The workers have to work in a hazardous environment that may include huge heights, sharp equipment, etc.
- Chemical plants: Chemical plants are another example of a high-risk workplace. As the name suggests, such industries use chemicals in production, which can pose health risks.
Legal steps to take after exposure
If you have been exposed to hazardous chemicals in your workplace, the legal steps you take determine your future. Here are some things you can do:
- File for workers’ compensation.
Workers’ compensation is like a safety net for employees injured in their workplace. It allows the employee to get benefits, such as medical expenses and lost wages. In exchange, the employer does not have to deal with a lawsuit. However, you need evidence that your injuries were caused in the scope of your work.
- Document your accident.
Documenting your accident involves taking pictures of the hazardous site or exposure as well as your injuries. Make sure you have detailed records of your injuries to strengthen your case. You can also include medical reports and witness statements.
- Understand employer liability.
Employers are legally bound by state and federal laws to provide their employees with a safe work environment. Failure to adhere to the regulations and being negligent can trigger a workers’ compensation claim or a lawsuit. Safety measures may include identifying and mitigating recognized hazards, providing proper safety equipment, and offering thorough training.
- Contact a legal professional.
Finally, the best thing you can do to protect your rights in case you were exposed to hazardous chemicals in your workplace and are suffering from health issues is to talk to an attorney. They are aware of the laws as well as your rights as a worker. They can help you in various ways, from looking for the right evidence to formulating strong arguments.
Don’t risk your life!
Working in a high-risk job can be nerve-wracking already, but your employer’s negligence can make things worse. Hire an attorney in California today to protect your rights!
