Understanding Chemical Hazards in the Workplace

Dealing with chemicals at work isn’t something that only chemists and scientists need to worry about. Jobs in a very wide range of industries can require people to come into contact with various types of chemicals in the course of their day-to-day responsibilities. Automotive, groundskeeping/landscaping, healthcare, manufacturing, cosmetology/hair styling, and agriculture are just a few industries where people commonly work with or are exposed to various types of chemicals. These chemicals can range from common types of items like cleaning products, paints, and gasoline to more specialized substances like corrosive chemicals, smoke created by surgical lasers, and fumes created during the welding process.

Chemicals are common in the workplace, but it’s extremely important that they are being used safely to minimize the risk of people being harmed by them. 

How Are People Exposed to Chemicals at Work?

There are a few different ways people can be harmed by chemicals at work:

• Inhalation of vapors, mists, or particles
• Unintentionally ingesting a substance
• A dangerous substance coming in direct contact with a person’s skin
• Being exposed to a substance when the skin is punctured by a sharp object, such as a needle or broken glass

It’s not always possible for chemical hazards to be fully removed from a workplace, but there are several different ways the risk for chemical exposure can be managed. Proper ventilation and protective gear are two of the most common solutions, but they’re not the only options. For example, it’s very important for chemical products to be properly labeled with warnings about what they are and how they can be used safely. Chemicals also need to be stored correctly to avoid accidents, such as by keeping flammable substances away from sources of heat. Training is also important to help make sure people know how to safely work with chemicals.

The Effects of Exposure to Chemical Hazards

The effects of being exposed to a chemical hazard varies depending on the type of chemical involved. For example, if a person is allergic to latex, wearing latex gloves at work could cause some degree of skin irritation. Substances or processes that create dangerous fumes can harm the respiratory system. Exposure to other types of chemicals can have extremely serious health effects or even be fatal, such as by interfering with the body’s ability to absorb oxygen or causing people to develop cancer.

Contact a Workplace Injury Lawyer

Earning a living shouldn’t have to mean jeopardizing your life and safety. If you’ve been harmed by exposure to a chemical hazard at work, contact a workplace injury lawyer as soon as possible. Scott Goodwin Law is experienced in helping people who were injured on the job get the workers compensation benefits they deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation where you can learn more about your legal options and get answers to any questions you have about your case.

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