All About Occupational Diseases and Workers’ Compensation

Within the area of Occupational Hygiene, which concerns all companies and organizations, we find what is called “occupational diseases.”

An occupational disease refers to a medical condition or disorder caused by your work environment or as a result of performing your work activities.

In some cases, the working conditions in a company can cause specific symptoms to their workers. For example, some companies use toxic chemical substances; others involve manufacturing processes that can create health problems or put the worker in risky situations or in contact with infections and diseases.

An occupational disease can affect different parts of the body, and these are some of the most common examples:

• Dermatitis
• Bronchitis
• Asthma
• Cancer
• Lung and respiratory diseases
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Hearing loss, etc.

The reality is that we can all face risks in our workplaces, even when we are not exposed to gases or toxic substances. Occupational illnesses also include mental or emotional disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder, high-stress levels, depression, and anxiety.

If you or a loved one have developed an illness or medical condition due to your work environment and/or activities, you must contact an attorney who can advise you on the possibility of receiving workers’ compensation.

Workers’ compensation is mandatory insurance that businesses with a certain amount of employees must have. Your lawyer must prove that your illness is related to your work activities or dangers existing in your workplace. If possible, they should prove that there are other cases of illnesses documented by other people who work under the same conditions. Filing your claim in a correct and timely manner is also of great importance.

Medical benefits generally cover the costs of your medical diagnosis and treatment until you are fully recovered. In addition, according to the state where you live, a percentage of your usual salary will be calculated, which will be paid to you during the time that you are unable to work.