An industrial illness is a condition that is brought about by specific workplace-related dangers. A person contracts such an illness as the result of them being too exposed to the occupational hazards of their particular job. The severity of the condition is entirely dependant on the risk itself, as well as the aftercare that is on offer on site.
Types of occupational hazards
Occupational hazards are brought about by the specific work that is carried out in the industry. More specifically, any number of industrial actions or substances can cause an industrial illness, from using a vibrating tool for too long to handling materials, such as dust, too often. The most common hazards are those that are borough about by asbestos. It is for this reason why it is handled and regulated with the utmost care and professionalism at all times.
Other types of occupational hazards include:
- Hand dermatitis
Workers who make frequent contact with water are those who are most likely to contract hand dermatitis. Other workers at risk are those who frequently come into direct contact with chemicals deemed to be harsh (this includes soaps and perfumes). This is thanks to something known as irritant contact dermatitis, and it can be very painful for those who suffer it. Typically, symptoms include hot, sore, scaly and itchy skin that cracks and bubbles. When infected by the bacteria known as Staphylococcus, hand dermatitis can also cause the skin to crust and ooze.
- Industrial deafness
Industrial deafness is a condition that impacts most people who work or have worked in a loud environment; it is officially defined as being ‘the gradual deterioration of one’s hearing as a result of them being overly exposed to noise levels that reach or exceed 90 decibels.’
Symptoms of this incredibly severe industrial illness include a constant ringing, hissing, or buzzing noise in the ears, and, in the worst case scenario, complete deafness.
- Work-related upper limb disorders
Commonly known as WRULDs, this specific type of musculoskeletal disorder impacts the upper part of the human body (torso up) and is frequently caused by repeated exposure to vibration. Typically, it is road workers who are most in danger of being stricken with this plight, thanks mainly to the fact that they often use drills and other similar devices.
What to do if you suffer an industrial illness
If you think that you are currently suffering from an industrial illness or have done in the past, then you need to get started on your claiming process. There are no two ways about it, yes, your job may entail you having to face occupational hazards daily, but your superiors should also offer you the utmost protection against them. It’s your bosses fault if you become the victim of such a risk, not yours. For this reason, you should have no qualms in getting in touch with a solicitor who is an expert in this field; such a professional can be found at www.the-compensation-experts.co.uk. They will work tirelessly by your side to ensure your industrial injury doesn’t cause you any more damage than it has done already by getting you the financial compensation you are owed.
Now that you are aware of the plight that is the industrial illness, you can set about trying to avoid contracting one at all costs. It means, quite simply, if you don’t feel that you are being provided with enough protection, make sure to tell your boss. If they don’t listen, tell them again.
