Construction Injuries Caused by Inhaling Dust and Harmful Substances
Work injuries can take a number of different forms, though work injuries sustained as a result of construction accidents tend to be the most serious. Construction workers may suffer serious harm with long-term repercussions to general health and wellness. Our attorneys are committed to helping construction workers in and around Daytona Beach who have suffered an injury at work as a result of negligence.
There are many different kinds of injuries that that occur from working construction. Some are more obvious than others.
Inhalation and Construction Worker Injury
One of the hidden dangers at a construction site involves items that are inhaled. Whether it's dust from concrete, asbestos at a demolition job, or various kinds of chemical agents, this can do major harm to the respiratory system in the short-term and the long run.
It's estimated that 2 million workers in the United States are potentially exposed to silica dust alone, which poses a number of health risks.
Potential Sources of Harmful Dust Particles on the Job
Some potential substances that can pose a danger to a worker's respiratory health include:
- Concrete
- Sand
- Demolition dust
- Particulate matter from mining/drilling
- Dust from stone and masonry
Keep in mind that many workers experience prolonged and repeated exposure to these substances, which means an increased risk of respiratory problems. This is especially true if the worker has been performing a similar job for many years. This can potentially result in silicosis.
What Is Silicosis?
Silicosis is an incurable type of lung disease that is caused by the inhalation of silica, a mineral that is found in rock, sand, and ores such as quartz. People in construction, mining, foundry work, and glass manufacturing are more likely to experience this condition given their exposure to dust rich in silica.
Over time, the silica particles can scar the tissue of the lungs, leading to major breathing problems. Silicosis increases a person's risk of developing other lung and respiratory conditions, such as lung cancer, tuberculosis, and chronic bronchitis.
Signs and Symptoms of Silicosis
Some of the most common signs and symptoms of silicosis include the following:
- Persistent cough
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Fever
- Fatigue
Wear Masks and Proper Protection
If you work in any type of construction or industrial job that regularly exposes you to dust, be sure to wear proper nose, mouth, and face protection. A protective mask can help reduce inhalation of harmful substances and prevent silicosis from developing over time.
How Our Attorneys Can Help
Workers who have suffered as a result of long-term exposure to dust may have legal options, particularly if their employer subjected them to dangerous work conditions without proper protective gear. We can examine the nature of your case and help seek justice against any parties who acted negligently or disregarded your health and safety.
Contact the Attorneys of Chanfrau & Chanfrau
For more information about your legal rights and options and how we can help you in your time of legal need, be sure to contact our construction accident and work injury attorneys today. The lawyers of Chanfrau & Chanfrau will fight for you and your legal rights in your time of legal need.