Chemical exposure on the job can cause serious and sometimes life-changing injuries. From skin burns to respiratory problems to long-term illnesses, the risks are very real. If you’ve been exposed to harmful substances at work, you may be entitled to Workers’ Compensation benefits. Understanding your rights and the claims process is key to making sure you receive the medical care and financial support you need.
How Chemical Exposure Happens at Work
Almost any job site can involve hazardous chemicals—not just factories or plants. Common sources include:
- Industrial materials like solvents, paint, or cleaning products.
- Agricultural chemicals such as pesticides and herbicides.
- Construction and demolition sites where asbestos, lead, or silica may be present.
- Everyday office environments, where poor ventilation during painting or cleaning can still cause illness.
Workers may be exposed by breathing in fumes, skin contact, or even accidental ingestion. Sometimes exposure is sudden, such as a spill. Other times, it happens gradually over months or years.
Health Risks from Chemical Exposure
The symptoms and conditions caused by chemical exposure can vary depending on the type of substance, level of exposure, and length of time. Some examples include:
- Burns, rashes, or skin irritation.
- Eye injuries, redness, or vision problems.
- Respiratory damage and lung disease.
- Neurological injuries, including nerve damage or even brain damage from toxic fumes.
- Serious long-term illnesses, including certain cancers from asbestos, benzene, or lead.
What To Do If You’ve Been Exposed
If you think you’ve suffered chemical exposure at work, act quickly:
- Get medical attention immediately. Your health comes first, and medical records will also help link your condition to the exposure.
- Report the exposure to your employer. In New York, there are strict deadlines for reporting work injuries.
- Document what happened. Write down what you were working with, where you were, and whether protective gear was provided. Keep notes only for yourself and your attorney. Ask your employer for the Material Safety Data Sheet (or MSDS)
- Save evidence and get witness names. These details can be crucial in your case.
- Contact an attorney experienced in Workers’ Compensation. A lawyer can help navigate the process, gather evidence, and protect your rights.
How MCV Law Can Help
Chemical exposure claims can be complicated. Employers and insurance companies may try to argue that your illness or injury wasn’t caused by work, or they may downplay the severity of your condition. At MCV Law, our Workers’ Compensation attorneys have decades of experience helping injured workers across New York secure the benefits they deserve.
We’ll guide you through the process, make sure deadlines are met, and fight back against denials or reduced benefits. Our team’s goal is to make the legal process as stress-free as possible so you can focus on recovery.
If you’ve been exposed to harmful chemicals on the job, contact MCV Law today for a free consultation. We’re here to fight for your health, your benefits, and your future.