Tuesday, November 16, 2010

10 Injuries and Illnesses Caused in the Workplace

While we all have the right to work in a safe environment, there are a number of jobs that come with increased hazard risks. Likewise, even when the environment is considered safe, an accident can still occur. If such incidents or conditions result in an injury or illness, you may be able to claim for compensation; especially if it results in a loss of earnings or has long-term health effects.

Here are 10 injuries and illnesses that can be caused in the workplace.

1. Exposure to asbestos has been known to cause a number of very serious and life-threatening illnesses. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that attacks a lining in the body that protects the organs. This disease can take as much as three decades to manifest itself.

2. Another serious illness that is related to the heavy or regular exposure to asbestos is asbestosis, a scarring on the lungs that can cause a shortness of breath.

3. One of the most serious injuries that can be received through a job is a spinal problem. Road traffic accidents and falls are just two possible causes, although many other hazards could result in the injury. The severity of the injury can vary greatly, but it's not uncommon for it to result in many major life changes.

4. Injuries to the head are also extremely serious, especially if it causes an injury to the brain. This type of injury could lead to many long-term problems, including emotional, physical, sensory or cognitive. Ongoing and expensive medical care may be need to aid recovery.

5. Industrial deafness is an illness that can be caused through exposure to excessive noise in a working environment. Other problems that can be caused include tinnitus. This is a permanent illness that leaves sufferers with a buzzing or ringing in their ears.

6. If your jobs involves driving, then the risks on the road are obviously one of the biggest you'll face. Accidents can lead to a wide range of injuries, including whiplash, which can have a big impact on your life both now and in the future.

7. The third asbestos-related illness on the list is lung cancer, which is a more likely outcome of repeated exposure to asbestos when it coincides with regular smoking.

8. Many of the illnesses and injuries discussed hear have the potential to cause long term and serious problems. In some cases, they can even lead to a fatality. Families of the victims are also advises to seek legal support in such situations.

9. One nasty injury that a workplace accident can cause is an amputation. The impact is of course devastating and can effect both lifestyle and ability to work in the future.

10. Although many injuries and illnesses are physical, compensation claims can also be sought where some form of psychological problems have been caused by an incident in the workplace.

Have you suffered a workplace accident, illness or injury? If so, you may wish to explore the possibility of making a compensation claim.


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