Four Categories of Occupational Diseases

What Are The Four Categories Of Occupational Diseases?

Occupational diseases and illnesses are often caused due to long-term exposure to dangerous substances at work. These diseases gradually develop over time, which is why they aren’t apparent immediately but can cause severe health issues gradually.

Occupational diseases can also prevent workers from performing their job and may lead to long-term or permanent disabilities. Common types of occupational diseases include lung disease, brain damage, cancer, vision damage, or hearing loss.

Reporting the occupational disease to the employer is important to receive workers’ compensation benefits. However, consulting a workers’ compensation lawyer can help ensure your rights are protected and that you receive the maximum benefits.

Categories of Occupational Diseases

Here are the four categories of occupational diseases and illnesses:

1.    Toxic Chemicals Exposure

Workers might be exposed to dangerous chemicals in an accident at work. For instance, a chemical spill might cause hazardous toxic fumes, causing lung injuries, chemical burns, and skin disorders.

A worker might also suffer from health problems after exposure to a low percentage of dangerous chemicals regularly. For example, agricultural employees are regularly exposed to pesticides, which may result in cancer or respiratory disorders. 

2.    Infectious Diseases

In certain workplaces, workers might get exposed to infections. Individuals working in laboratories, medical facilities, or hospitals have a high risk of exposure to numerous contagions. These employees might contract illnesses needed extensive treatment or affect their ability to work.

3.    Cumulative Injuries

Workers might suffer from continuous diseases and illnesses because of performing repeated physical motions while at work. If the individual proves their illness was caused due to work conditions, they might be entitled to receive workers’ compensation benefits.

Some examples of cumulative injuries and illness may include carpal tunnel syndrome due to continuous typing or working with hands or degenerative disc disease caused by regular lifting, stopping, or bending.

4.    Psychological Injuries

Lastly, the excessive stress of work could cause psychological injuries and illness. An employee might suffer from mental stress caused by work overload, high competition, discrimination, or other harsh work conditions. This could result in depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders. 

Contributing Factors in Occupational Diseases Accidents

There can be multiple contributing factors to occupational illnesses and disease accidents. These may include:

• Lack of effective training and education
• Lack of safety
• Lack of sufficient research and statistics priority setting
• Little to no knowledge and awareness of safety information sources
• No occupational services
• No safety and health policy, work involvement, management system, and structure
• Poor advisory system, enforcement, government policies, and legislation

Consult Expert Workers’ Compensation Lawyers in California

Occupational illnesses and diseases can not just be excruciating but also expansive. In some cases, these diseases could even result in long-term or permanent disability. Having proper legal representation can ensure your rights are protected. Our experienced workers’ compensation lawyers at Law Offices of Andrea R. Herman can help if you or your loved one is struggling with occupational illness or disease. Our team thoroughly assesses the case and ensures you get the maximum benefits to cover your lost wages, medical bills, ongoing treatment, and more. Get in touch with us for a free consultation on your case.