Exposure to Toxic Substances Cause Roughly 2.8 Million Worker Deaths Per Year

According to a report from the New York State Department of Health, a toxic substance can be defined as any substance that causes “harm [when it] enters or contacts the body.” Exposure to toxic substances can result in a number of long-term, life-threatening illnesses — and even fatality. In a 2018 study from the United Nations (UN), researchers estimated that one worker dies from toxic substance exposure every 30 seconds. On a global scale, this amounts to almost 2.8 million worker deaths per year.

Despite the presence of clear laws outlining the obligation that employers have to maintain a reasonably safe work environment, many laborers are still routinely exposed to toxic substances that could have long-term negative effects on their health. According to the UN report, one of the most common illnesses that exposed workers develop is cancer, which amounts to approximately 70% of all diseases in the workplace.

Some of the most common toxic substances that laborers are exposed to are:

  • Toxic industrial chemicals
  • Pesticides
  • Paint
  • Petroleum products
  • Radiation
  • Solvents
  • Glues
  • Acids
  • Caustic substances
  • Heavy metals like mercury, lead, cadmium, and aluminum

While exposure to some of these listed substances can almost immediately result in negative health effects, it may take years before those effects are discovered. In many tragic cases, workers do not even realize they are sick before it is too late. However, even in these cases, workers — as well as their families and loved ones — deserve their right to pursue legal action.

Contact a New York Toxic Substance Exposure Lawyer

If you or a loved one has developed a long-term, life-threatening illness as a result of being exposed to toxic substances in the workplace, turn to an experienced work injury lawyer to discuss your rights. Our experienced and compassionate attorneys will guide you through the necessary steps to determine liability and get you the compensation you deserve. To discuss the potential merits of legal action in your case, contact our offices by calling (212) 779-0057 today.

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