The dangers of handling hazardous materials at work

Workers’ compensation is a type of insurance that provides benefits to employees who get injured or become ill as a result of their job. If you get injured while handling hazardous materials at work in Colorado, you may be eligible for workers’ compensation benefits.

What are hazardous materials?

Hazardous materials are substances that pose a threat to workers’ health and safety. These include asbestos, radioactive material, explosives, flammable liquids and gases, combustible dust, and poisonous or infectious substances. In any workplace where workers may be exposed to hazardous materials on the job, either in gas form or solid form, workers must have adequate safety equipment to protect them from exposure.

Injuries caused by handling hazardous materials

Many workers who handle hazardous materials at work suffer severe injuries or illnesses as a result of exposure. One of the most common injuries is respiratory illness caused by breathing in toxic fumes or dust. Another common injury is skin contact with hazardous materials, which can cause burns, lesions and other serious health problems.

It’s not uncommon for workers who handle hazardous materials to suffer hearing loss or vision problems. They can also experience long-term exposure to toxic substances, which causes nervous system damage and reproductive issues.

Workers’ compensation benefits

If you get injured while handling hazardous materials at work, workers’ compensation benefits may include paid medical care and income replacement benefits. Paid medical care includes all the necessary treatment for your injury or illness, including doctor visits, hospital stays, surgery, prescription drugs and rehabilitation.

Income replacement benefits provide a percentage of your normal wage while you are unable to work due to your injury or illness. If you are permanently disabled as a result of your work injury, workers’ comp may cover the cost of vocational rehabilitation, which can help you find work that accommodates your disability.

If you get injured while handling hazardous materials at work, it is important to seek medical attention right away. You should also report the injury to your supervisor to ensure that you receive the workers’ compensation benefits that you are entitled to.

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