New York City Occupational Exposure Attorneys

Harmful Exposure in the Workplace & Workers’ Compensation

Employees across various industries are at risk of being exposed to harmful and toxic substances in the workplace. From construction workers carrying out demolitions of old, asbestos-containing buildings to healthcare workers being exposed to contagious, airborne, and infectious diseases, harmful exposure affects countless workers in the U.S. every year.

If exposure to harmful chemicals or germs at work caused or worsened your illness, you could be eligible for workers’ compensation. Many different workplaces can expose workers to a variety of different diseases. You shouldn’t have to suffer the consequences of harmful occupational exposure on your own.

At Schotter Millican, LLP, our New York City occupational exposure attorneys represent workers who have been exposed to dangerous substances or contracted serious illnesses in the course of their employment. We have a long history of successfully protecting the rights of our clients and are prepared to help you navigate the workers’ compensation system.

Get Help Now: Contact Schotter Millican at (718) 550-0610 for a Free Consultation

On This Page:

• Illnesses Caused By Occupational Exposure
• Workplace Asbestos Exposure
• Ground Zero Harmful Exposure Claims
• Harmful Exposure Workers' Comp
• Free Case Review

What Types of Illnesses Can Harmful Occupational Exposure Cause?

Exposure to dangerous, harmful, and toxic substances in the workplace can lead to an array of illnesses and medical conditions.

Some examples include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Lung conditions from inhaling chemicals, asbestos, dust, or other airborne particles/toxins
• Brain damage resulting from chemical fumes
• Skin conditions resulting from handling toxic substances or latex sensitivity
• Cancer caused by certain toxic conditions/substances
• Lead poisoning

Healthcare workers are also at a heightened risk of being exposed to infectious disease, bloodborne pathogens, bacteria, and viruses, including COVID-19, in the workplace. This can result in healthcare workers being diagnosed with serious medical conditions, such as hepatitis A, hepatitis C, influenza, HIV/AIDS, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and more.

Asbestos Exposure in the Workplace

Some of the most common types of workplace-borne illnesses are those that result from asbestos exposure. Asbestos is an extremely dangerous substance used in commercial and industrial settings, especially during the early part of the 20^th Century up until the 1970s. Many employees may be regularly exposed to asbestos without even realizing it. As a result, they may fail to recognize various health symptoms as being related to asbestos exposure and may not receive prompt or proper treatment.

Asbestos exposure causes a variety of medical conditions, including mesothelioma (a type of cancer) and asbestosis. Because the latency period for these illnesses, especially mesothelioma, is so long, many people do not seek treatment until their conditions have progressed significantly. As a result, these illnesses are often fatal.

9/11 & Ground Zero Harmful Exposure Claims

First responders, volunteers, cleanup crews, and others who joined in recovery and clean-up efforts at Ground Zero following the terrorist attacks on 9/11 were exposed to numerous harmful chemicals, toxins, and substances. The state of New York enacted legislation allowing these individuals to bring workers’ compensation claims in the months and years following the attacks.

At Schotter Millican, LLP, we are proud to represent the many heroes who put their health, safety, and lives on the line to serve others. Learn more about filing a 9/11 Ground Zero participant claim, and how our firm can help, by clicking here.

Workers’ Compensation for Victims of Harmful Occupational Exposure

Exposure to asbestos, benzene, and other dangerous chemicals, toxins, and substances can change the whole course of your life. If you were exposed to harmful substances at work or during the course of your employment, you are likely eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.

Every workers’ compensation case is different. It is important that you are aware of what you can reasonably expect from the process, including which types of benefits (and how much in payment) you may be entitled to receive.

Under New York’s workers’ compensation laws, you may be entitled to the following benefits:

• Medical Benefits: Workers’ compensation pays for all reasonable and necessary medical expenses related to your qualifying injury or illness. This includes costs associated with prescription medications, medical treatments, rehabilitation, surgery, and even mileage to and from medical appointments.
• Wage Replacement Benefits: Workers’ compensation pays temporary and permanent partial and total disability benefits to workers who are unable to return to work due to their qualifying injuries or illnesses. Temporary total disability (TTD) benefits are paid at a rate of 2/3 your average weekly wage.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: Vocational rehabilitation benefits are meant to assist workers who are unable to return to work due to qualifying injuries or illnesses. These benefits aid with the cost of educational materials and courses, retraining, job placement services, and other related expenses.

Additionally, when a worker passes away due to a job-related injury or illness, their surviving family members may be able to recover workers’ compensation death benefits. If your loved one suffered a fatal illness or medical condition due to harmful occupational exposure, reach out to our firm to learn more about your legal rights and options.

FAQ: New York City Occupational Exposure Attorneys

1. What Is Occupational Exposure?

Occupational exposure refers to the exposure of workers to harmful or toxic substances, including chemicals, dust, airborne particles, and infectious diseases, during the course of their employment. It can lead to a variety of health conditions, some of which may be severe or life-threatening.

2. Who Is at Risk of Occupational Exposure?

Workers in various industries are at risk of harmful exposure, including:

• Construction Workers: Often exposed to asbestos, silica dust, and other toxic substances during demolition or renovation projects.
• Healthcare Workers: Regularly come into contact with infectious diseases, bloodborne pathogens, and hazardous drugs.
• Manufacturing Employees: May handle chemicals and toxic materials without adequate protective equipment.
• First Responders: Face risks from smoke, toxins, and other hazardous materials during emergencies.

3. What Illnesses Can Result from Harmful Workplace Exposure?

• Exposure to hazardous substances can lead to:
• Respiratory issues, such as asthma, chronic bronchitis, and lung cancer
• Skin conditions like dermatitis and chemical burns
• Neurological disorders, including memory loss and brain damage from fumes
• Cancers caused by asbestos, benzene, or other carcinogens
• Lead poisoning from prolonged exposure to lead-based materials
• Infectious diseases, such as hepatitis, influenza, or SARS, often affecting healthcare workers

4. What Should I Do If I’ve Been Harmed by Occupational Exposure?

If you suspect you have been harmed due to occupational exposure, take the following steps:

• Seek Medical Attention: Get a proper diagnosis and treatment for your condition.
• Report the Exposure: Notify your employer as soon as possible.
• Document Everything: Keep records of your symptoms, medical visits, and any unsafe conditions at work.
• Consult an Attorney: Reach out to a skilled occupational exposure attorney to understand your rights and options.

5. Can I File for Workers’ Compensation?

Yes, workers exposed to harmful substances may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits in New York. These benefits may include:

• Medical Coverage: For treatments, medications, surgeries, and rehabilitation related to your illness or injury.
• Wage Replacement: Temporary or permanent disability benefits if you cannot work due to your condition.
• Vocational Rehabilitation: Assistance with retraining or job placement if you are unable to return to your previous job.

6. What Are Asbestos Exposure Claims?

Asbestos, once widely used in construction and industrial settings, is a known health hazard. Prolonged exposure can lead to:

• Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive form of cancer
• Asbestosis: Scarring of lung tissue 
• Lung Cancer: Directly linked to inhaling asbestos fibers

If you believe you have been exposed to asbestos, contact an attorney to discuss your legal options and potential claims for compensation.

Get Help Now: Contact Schotter Millican at (718) 550-0610 for a Free Consultation