Workplaces May Contain Environmental Hazards
The American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine recently released a list of the top 10 environmental hazards, most of which affect people in their homes. But the hazards can also cause serious injuries in the workplace.
The list of environmental hazards includes asbestos, which was widely used in the construction of buildings and homes in the 60s and 70s. Construction workers, workers in the paint industry, pipefitters and others may be at an especially high risk of exposure to asbestos fibers. Exposure to asbestos, even if it occurred decades ago, can increase your risk of contracting asbestosis, mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer and other occupational diseases.
Combustion gases pose another dangerous occupational hazard. For instance, carbon monoxide is generated when portable kerosene heaters, gas-powered appliances and certain types of furnaces and heaters are used in a large, confined space. Exposure to carbon monoxide can be fatal.
Other environmental hazards on the list include tobacco smoke, radon, lead, contaminated tap water, household chemicals, pesticides, allergens and food poisoning.
Michael Parsons is a workers’ compensation lawyer, representing injured workers in the metro Atlanta metro area and helping them recover the workers’ compensation benefits that they have earned.
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