Am I entitled to compensation for work injuries and illnesses that are caused by exposure to chemicals, fumes or other substances in my work environment?
A. Yes. Injured workers’ injuries, diseases, and illnesses that are causally related to exposure to chemicals, fumes, or other substances in the work place are compensable work injuries. These types of work injuries can immediately manifest as a rash or some type of skin anomaly, difficulty breathing, feeling of sickness or illness, and/or other physical disorders, or may manifest as an underlying progressive illness that may not become apparent for years following exposure to the harmful agents. Employers are required to maintain “Material Safety Data Sheets” (M.S.D.S.) where chemicals are used in the work place, detailing the nature and potential effects of chemicals used. If you have developed a condition which you believe may be related to exposure to chemicals, fumes, or other substances at work, or you are frankly just concerned about the nature and extent of your exposures in the work place, do not hesitate to immediately speak with your employer and your physician to attempt to
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