Charleston Exposure to Toxic Substances

Some jobs require exposure to dangerous substances such as chemical fumes or highly flammable materials by their very nature. Other workers are exposed to toxins that they were not even warned about, such as offices covered with lead-based paint. The Charleston workplace safety lawyers at the Steinberg Law Firm want all workers to know the rights guaranteed to them by the Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970.

Minimizing Risk

Many people accept jobs knowing that they come with certain risks, either for love of the profession or for the salary offered. Just because workers accept the dangerous of working with hazardous chemicals, however, does not relieve employers of the duty to minimize those dangers. Employers are expected to offer their workers:

• Full training in performing their jobs safely
• Protective equipment such as gloves, masks, or visors
• An organized environment free of clutter and other hazards
• Complete information about the risks of the job

An employer who fails to provide workers with any of these may be held responsible for any injuries workers suffer as a result.

Unknown Risks

It is arguably worse when people accept risky jobs without even knowing it. This can happen in any work environment, from an office to a mine. Some dangers employees can face are:

• Working with new chemicals whose effects are unknown
• Poorly maintained environments, which can lead to gas leaks or other hazards
• Employers who do not inform them that the chemicals they work with are dangerous

If an employer can reasonably foresee certain dangers in their workplaces but still fail to correct these dangers or warn employees, the employer may be legally liable for any injuries or illnesses that result.

Contact Us

The Steinberg Law Firm has been helping injured workers for over 80 years. To speak with one of our Charleston workplace injury attorneys, call 843-720-2800 today.