Construction workers often face serious risks to their respiratory health. Dust, fumes and hazardous materials can cause lasting damage to the lungs.
Knowing these risks and your rights is important if you work on construction sites. Here are some crucial points to remember.
Common Respiratory Illnesses in Construction
Several respiratory illnesses are commonly linked to construction work. These include:
- Silicosis: caused by inhaling silica dust from cutting stone, concrete or brick.
- Asbestosis: comes from breathing in asbestos fibers found in older buildings.
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): can develop from long-term exposure to dust, fumes and chemicals.
- Occupational asthma: triggered by breathing in dust, paint fumes or chemical vapors.
- Lung cancer: has been linked to asbestos or diesel exhaust exposure.
How These Illnesses Are Contracted
Respiratory illnesses happen when workers breathe in harmful particles over time. Common sources include cutting, drilling or demolishing materials. Welding, sanding and working with chemical products can also release dangerous fumes. Without proper masks or ventilation, these tiny particles settle deep into the lungs.
Long-Term Health Impacts
The long-term effects can be severe. Workers may face permanent breathing problems, frequent lung infections or even life-threatening diseases like lung cancer. These conditions can lead to disability and a significant loss of quality of life.
If a respiratory illness is linked to your job, you may be able to file a workers’ compensation claim. To succeed, you must show that your work conditions caused or contributed to your illness. A strong medical report and work history are key to proving your case.
If you believe your illness is work-related, it may be time to seek some legal guidance.