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Common Occupational Diseases

Common Occupational Diseases

Despite proper safety training and precautions, workplace accidents can still occur. Many workplaces, including construction, factories, and other industrial environments, are prone to serious accidents. Even office workers can be at risk for work-related injuries like repetitive stress injuries and overexertion. While accidents can account for many injuries, there are a significant number of workers’ compensation claims filed for occupational diseases, which are the result of many years of exposure to hazards. Below are some common illnesses that are the basis of workers’ compensation claims.

Skin Diseases

The skin is an important protective organ, but long periods of exposure to sunlight or toxic chemicals can cause a number of skin diseases. Construction workers, roofers, agricultural workers, park rangers, and other occupations which require significant time outside often experience a greater likelihood of developing skin cancer.

Painters, cleaners, mechanics, and factory workers may spend their careers coming into daily contact with toxic chemicals. Even with protective measures, skin diseases can still occur.

Common skin diseases experienced by workers may include:

  • Skin cancer
  • Skin infections
  • Rashes
  • Skin inflammations
  • Eczema
  • Contact dermatitis

Respiratory Diseases

Workers in occupations that are exposed to toxic chemicals are often victims of respiratory issues. Those who work in industrial and construction settings may be breathing in dangerous chemicals every day. Years of exposure can aggravate allergies, but it also can cause serious medical conditions, such as mesothelioma.

Respiratory illnesses that may be covered by a workers’ compensation claim include:

  • Tuberculosis
  • Occupational asthma
  • Pharyngitis
  • Mesothelioma
  • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
  • Pneumonitis
  • Silicosis

Hearing Loss

Mild hearing loss is to be expected as we age, but for workers who spend their work hours around loud machinery and excessive noise, they may experience accelerated and severe hearing loss. Even with the use of hearing protection, hearing loss is still very common in industrial and construction work.

If you are making a workers’ compensation claim for hearing loss, it is important that you undergo a hearing evaluation by a medical professional to identify the extent of your injury. In many cases, workers’ compensation can cover the cost of hearing aids.

Overexertion

Strain injuries and overexertion are common across all industries. Healthcare workers, construction workers, delivery drivers, and dozens of other jobs require workers to lift and carry heavy objects throughout their shift. Manufacturing and warehouse jobs often require repetitive motions, which can irritate joints and muscles. Overexertion is one of the top reasons for workers’ compensation claims.

Overexertion injuries include:

  • Ankle sprains
  • Shoulder and back injuries
  • Hernias
  • Leg injuries
  • Joint injuries
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome

Speak With Our Albuquerque Workers' Compensation Attorney - (505) 219-2176

Occupational diseases may take months or even years to show up, but that doesn’t mean that you are not still entitled to workers’ compensation for your injuries. With more than a decade of experience, Michael J. Doyle, Attorney at Law is ready to guide you through every step of your claim. Let our Albuquerque workers’ compensation lawyer help you understand your rights and legal options today.

We’re available weekends and evenings to fit your busy schedule. Contact our team today to schedule a free initial consultation. Call (505) 219-2176.

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