Occupational Disease and Workers’ Compensation in California

Workers in a wide range of industries are at risk of sustaining specific injuries that could require extensive medical treatment. 

Workers can also sustain injuries described as “wear and tear” or “cumulative trauma” injuries over time. 

Specific Injuries

A specific injury occurs on a particular date and time, like falling off a ladder or lifting something that hurts your back. 

“Wear and Tear” or Cumulative Trauma injuries / Occupational Disease 

Physical injuries – Workers in occupations involving repetitive motions, like lifting, bending, or typing, may be at risk of developing “wear and tear” or cumulative trauma injuries. The symptoms can take weeks, months, or even years to develop. A physician should provide an opinion that supports a relationship between work duties and the condition. 

Internal injuries – Other injuries and diseases can occur due to various exposures at the workplace. Exposure to periods of prolonged stress can contribute to high blood pressure, heart problems, or even aggravate diabetes, for example. Exposure to dust, chemicals, dust, or fumes at work can cause damage to the lungs. Unfortunately, workplace exposure can even contribute to certain cancers.

Hearing loss – A common injury for workers who work around loud noise, like airport workers, heavy equipment operators, farmers, ambulance drivers, manufacturers, and factory workers are all at risk. An explosion at work would be work-related as well. 

Skin conditions – Rashes and thermal burns can be caused by exposure to harmful chemicals and lead to pain and scarring. Occupations at risk for these skin injuries include:

• Lab workers.
• Farmers who use pesticides.
• Working around radiation.
• Miners. 

Brain injuries – Exposure to dangerous chemicals and even infections like West Nile Virus and viruses like Covid -19 can cause severe and lasting damage to the brain. 

The above are only examples. If you suspect you have been exposed to harmful circumstances at the workplace, consider consulting with a work injury lawyer in Orange County to gather the evidence necessary to present to a workers’ compensation Judge. 

How To File A Claim For Occupational Illness

Unfortunately, the California workers’ compensation system is complex, particularly when gathering evidence of serious injuries. To document a specific, cumulative trauma injury, or occupational illness, consider a free consultation with our Award-winning Orange County workers’ compensation lawyer, Thomas F. Martin, PLC. 

For over 30 years, Tom has assisted injured workers to secure the financial and medical benefits they deserve.