Chemical Exposure Accidents Lawyer
Chemical exposure is everywhere in the modern world. Potential toxins are in the air, water, soil, food, paint, clothing, medicine, and so on. It is almost impossible to avoid chemical exposure, but since it’s mostly at low levels, people don’t get sick or die.
Employers have a duty to provide a safe work environment and landlords have a similar duty to ensure there are no dangers to human health on their premises. Under most circumstances, regulations are in place to minimize the risks associated with dangerous chemicals, so a chemical exposure lawyer is generally unnecessary.
However, chemical exposure at toxic levels can happen and the consequences can be devastating. If you or a family member sustains injuries due to accidental contact with hazardous chemicals, flammable liquids, or inhalation of harmful fumes, you may be eligible to receive compensation from the responsible parties. Find out more about chemical exposure risks and when to consult chemical exposure lawyers.
What is a Chemical Exposure Accident?
A chemical exposure accident, termed a “chemical incident” by the World Health Organization (WHO), is the accidental release of a chemical substance that may result in harm to people or the environment. It could be a sudden and acute event or a slow leak that no one notices. Examples of chemical exposure accidents include:
- Chemical factory or warehouse explosion
- Toxic contamination of the water supply or food
- Oil spills
- Chemical storage leaks
Hazardous substances can take many forms and the means of exposure are equally diverse. These include inhalation of toxic fumes, skin contact with corrosive substances, or ingestion of contaminated food or water. Depending on the level and type of chemical exposure, medical attention may be required.
What Are the Potential Adverse Health Effects?
The injuries you can sustain from chemical exposure accidents will depend on the following:
- Chemical type
- Level and length of exposure
- Method of exposure
- General health condition and age
Some people are more vulnerable than others to specific chemicals. Children, pregnant women, older people, and those with pre-existing conditions may sustain more serious injuries than other groups.
Among the possible health effects that would concern personal injury lawyers include:
- Chemical burns
- Reproductive issues
- Birth defects
- Organ damage
- Weakened immune system
- Physical and cognitive problems
- Cancer
What Are the Common Chemicals That Pose Health Hazards?
While all kinds of potentially toxic chemicals and pollutants abound, especially in specific industries, some hazardous materials are particularly common. But many of these chemicals are also present in homes, consumer products, food, water, and the air. Because of that, you have an increased risk of chemical exposure injuries that may lead to chemical exposure lawsuits.
This type of gas has no colour, smell, or taste, and it is deadly in high levels of exposure. Even at low levels, prolonged exposure can permanently affect your memory, vision, and hearing. In some cases, it can lead to Parkinsonism.
Asbestos is a naturally-occurring mineral used in building materials and automotive parts. Asbestos exposure may increase the risk of certain respiratory diseases, such as lung cancer. Construction workers and automotive parts labourers may have a higher risk of exposure as they may work with materials containing asbestos.
These come from heating coal to break it down into pitch and other chemicals. Exposure to, and skin contact with, coal tars may increase the risk of some types of cancer, including skin, lung, and digestive tract cancer.
This is a flammable gas present in building materials and consumer products, such as glues, paints, and wallpapers. Exposure to high levels can irritate the eyes, throat, and nose. Long-term exposure can worsen the symptoms of asthma in infants and children. Formaldehyde is also a carcinogen.
People exposed to these toxic substances can either immediately or gradually exhibit symptoms of the serious effects of chemical exposure. In most cases, these effects may require medical attention. If accidental exposure to a dangerous toxin is due to the negligence of a third party, such as an employer, it may qualify for a personal injury lawsuit and chemical exposure lawsuit settlements.
When to Hire a Chemical Exposure Accidents Lawyer
A relatively recent and developing area of personal injury law involves injuries from toxic substances, such as mould in apartments or office buildings, food toxins, pharmaceutical products, pesticides, or other industrial chemicals. This can have widespread implications for employers, landlords, food and chemical product manufacturers, mining and construction industries, and many other businesses.
A chronic or permanent health condition, such as kidney damage or kidney cancer, involves significant medical and health expenses. Unfortunately, proving causation for toxic tort claims is often difficult. If you want to get compensation benefits for injuries, you will need the services of an experienced personal injury lawyer in Canada.
If you believe you have been exposed to toxic chemicals due to the negligence of others, consult with a chemical exposure accidents lawyer immediately.
| How to Prevent Chemical Exposure in the Workplace | |
| Avoiding Skin Contact with Toxic Materials | Some toxic substances can result in chemical burns or long-term skin problems. Wear personal protective equipment (PPE), such as aprons, gloves, boots, face shields, and other clothing to cover exposed skin. Follow the PPE selection guide on the Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety (OSH) website. |
| Protecting the Eyes and Face | People can be exposed to high levels of toxic substances without knowing it. It could be in the form of a fine powder, vapour, or fine spray. Use a face shield, mask, and safety glasses at all times. Refer to the OSH to choose the right PPE. The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Standard Z94.3 also provides advice on the choice and use of face and eye protectors. |
| Avoid Breathing Mists, Toxic Dust, and Vapours | Respiratory problems are a common issue with chemical exposure in the workplace. It is vital to use the proper respirators that fit correctly over the nose and mouth. Refer to the OSH page and CSA Standard Z94.4 for the legal requirements. |
Not knowing your rights can be complex, especially if you don’t know what to do after suffering a chemical exposure accident in your workplace. Diamond Law is here to help you. Call us now!
Pro Tip
“If you have been seriously injured due to chemical exposure and want to sue, it is best to be represented by an expert chemical exposure accident lawyer.”
-Diamond & Diamond
Planning to File a Chemical Exposure Lawsuit? Call Diamond & Diamond Now!
Canada does not have toxic tort laws. Injuries incurred from chemical exposure accidents will be subject to various national and provincial laws on personal injuries, such as premises liability and product liability. Workers’ compensation insurance typically covers workplace injuries, including chemical exposure accidents. The applicability of these laws will depend on the circumstances of each case.
If you believe your chemical exposure injuries are due to the negligence of others, you can file a chemical exposure lawsuit with the help of an experienced personal injury lawyer from Diamond & Diamond. We can evaluate the circumstances of your injuries to see if you have a case. You can be sure that you will meet with nothing but professional, courteous, and understanding legal services if you do. Visit us now or call 1-800-567-HURT for a free consultation with our chemical exposure lawyers.