A Guide on Exposure to Toxic and Harmful Substances In The Workplace

Exposure to toxic and harmful substances in the workplace is a serious concern that affects workers across various industries. Over extended periods of exposure, workers are at a higher risk of developing occupational diseases that may not present symptoms until years later.

Common Toxic and Harmful Substances in the Workplace

Aerosolized Medications

Common in healthcare settings, aerosolized drugs used for respiratory treatments can expose workers to airborne chemicals, increasing the risk of lung irritation and other respiratory conditions.

Anesthetic Gases

Waste anesthetic gases, commonly used in medical and dental procedures, can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and long-term reproductive or neurological damage.

Antineoplastic Drugs

These chemotherapy and cancer-treatment drugs can be hazardous if handled improperly, leading to an increased risk of cancer and genetic mutations in workers exposed to them regularly.

Chemical Sterilants and Disinfectants

Cleaning agents such as ethylene oxide, peracetic acid, and hydrogen peroxide are necessary for sterilization but can cause respiratory issues, skin irritation, and long-term neurological effects.

Heavy Metals

Workers in industrial and manufacturing settings may be exposed to lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium, which can cause organ damage and developmental issues.

Pesticides and Herbicides

Agricultural workers frequently come into contact with pesticides, leading to acute poisoning symptoms or long-term neurological disorders.

Asbestos and Silica Dust

Found in construction and manufacturing industries, exposure to these substances can lead to severe lung diseases, including asbestosis and silicosis, as well as mesothelioma.

The Health Effects of Toxic Exposure

The health effects of exposure to harmful substances depend on the type of chemical, the level of exposure, and the duration of contact. Some immediate symptoms include:

Short-Term Effects

Headaches, dizziness, nausea, irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, difficulty breathing, and skin rashes.

Long-Term Effects

Chronic respiratory diseases, organ damage, reproductive issues, neurological disorders, and an increased risk of cancer.

How Employers Can Reduce Workplace Chemical Exposure

Employers have a legal responsibility to minimize workers’ exposure to harmful substances. This can be achieved through:

• Engineering Controls: Installing ventilation systems, using enclosed machinery, and maintaining proper air filtration to reduce airborne contaminants.
• Administrative Controls: Implementing safety protocols, conducting regular chemical hazard training, and enforcing exposure limits.
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Providing employees with gloves, respirators, protective eyewear, and gowns to prevent direct contact with hazardous substances.
• Regular Safety Inspections: Ensuring proper chemical handling procedures, maintaining safety data sheets (SDS), and monitoring air quality in high-risk environments.

What Employees Can Do to Protect Themselves

Workers can proactive steps to reduce their risk of exposure, including:

Following Safety Procedures

Adhering to training guidelines, handling chemicals properly, and using PPE.

Reporting Unsafe Conditions

Notifying supervisors of spills, leaks, or improper storage of hazardous materials.

Seeking Medical Attention

If symptoms of toxic exposure arise, consulting a medical professional immediately is crucial to prevent long-term health complications.

Legal Options for Employees Harmed by Toxic Substances

Employees in Philadelphia who suffer health issues due to workplace exposure to toxic substances have several legal options to seek compensation and justice for their workplace injuries.

Workers’ Compensation Claims

Employees can file a workers’ compensation claim to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and disability benefits. Workers’ compensation is a no-fault system, meaning employees do not have to prove employer negligence—only that the illness or injury resulted from workplace exposure. However, these benefits may not fully compensate for long-term health effects or pain and suffering.

Third-Party Liability Claims

If a party other than the employer contributed to the toxic exposure, such as a chemical manufacturer, equipment supplier, or contractor, the employee may file a third-party liability claim. This type of lawsuit can provide additional compensation beyond what workers’ compensation offers, including pain and suffering, uncovered medical costs, full lost wages, and punitive damages in cases of gross negligence.