A worker may develop a health condition or disorder because of employment-related factors (occupational disease). The elements the worker is exposed to continually when performing their duties may result in an acute or chronic disease.
Here are three elements that cause occupational illnesses:
1. Physical hazards
These hazards cause harm through a transfer of energy from the agent in question to a worker. Examples include noise, vibration, heights, heat, cold, radiation, and ergonomic factors.
For example, someone exposed to noise for prolonged periods without personal protective equipment (PPE) may develop hearing loss. A nurse working with radiation-emitting equipment without protection may have an increased risk of cancer, thyroid disease and cataracts. It’s also risky when a worker excessively works in hot or cold environments, as they can experience heatstroke or hypothermia.
2. Chemical hazards
Chemical substances in the workplace can harm workers. These substances can be in the form of gas, vapor, dust, liquid or solid. Examples of chemical hazards include asbestos, lead, pesticides, benzene, arsenic, cadmium and chromium.
Exposure to chemical hazards can lead to cancer, asthma, respiratory problems, poisoning, skin irritation and damage to vital organs. For instance, prolonged asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma (a cancer that forms in the thin tissue that lines many internal organs, including the lungs, heart, and abdomen). Exposure to benzene can cause short-term effects, such as drowsiness, headaches and confusion, and long-term ones, such as increased risk of developing leukemia and bone marrow issues.
3. Biological hazards
Workers exposed to biological hazards, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites and biotoxin, can develop an occupational illness.
If you develop an occupational disease due to any of these hazards, you will likely suffer several damages, including medical expenses and lost wages. Learn more about filing a workers’ compensation claim to cover the damages you incur.