Skin Exposure to Workplace Chemicals Can Cause Serious Injuries
Chemical inhalation is a well-known cause of workplace injuries, according to the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). In order to reduce the number of serious injuries caused each year by chemical inhalation, OSHA requires the use of protective equipment when working with certain dangerous chemicals for increased workplace safety. However, skin exposure to many of these chemicals can be equally dangerous - and can come with hidden risks many workers and employers don’t think of until it’s too late.
First, many chemicals used in a wide range of workplaces can cause skin injury if they come in contact with the body. Chemical burns, irritation, or allergic reactions can all cause serious damage or even be life-threatening. OSHA requires protective gloves and other gear be worn when working with many of these chemicals to prevent them from coming into contact with skin.
Next, skin exposure to a chemical poses the hidden danger of increasing a person’s total exposure to a chemical, making poisoning more likely. In many cases, workers may judge themselves to be “fine” after just a bit of inhalation, not realizing that their skin has also soaked up a dangerous chemical. Medical treatment is necessary after any kind of dangerous chemical exposure.
At Page Law, our experienced workplace accident lawyers in St. Louis can guide you through every step of the process after a work accident, from filing your workers’ compensation claim to holding any negligent third parties accountable in court. To learn more about how we can help you protect your legal rights, call us today at (314) 322-8515 for a free and confidential telephone consultation.
