The Dangers of Injuries from Hazardous Material Exposure in the Maritime Industry

Maritime injuries can have serious consequences for workers and their loved ones, especially when they suffer exposure to hazardous materials. Unfortunately, the very nature of maritime work means that some exposure to these chemicals is essentially unavoidable, so workers must know their rights and how best to protect themselves.

If you or someone you love has suffered a maritime injury, it’s time to learn more about your legal options. Call Reeves & Mestayer at 228-374-5151 to set up a time to meet with our team now.

Understanding Hazardous Material Exposure in the Maritime Industry

In the maritime industry, workers face unique risks due to the frequent handling and transportation of hazardous materials. These materials, which range from industrial chemicals and fuels to cleaners and asbestos, pose a significant threat if mishandled. Various routes of exposure, including inhalation, direct skin contact, or accidental ingestion, can lead to severe health issues. The immediate effects might include symptoms such as coughing, skin irritation, or eye damage. Long-term exposure can escalate to more severe conditions, including chronic respiratory diseases or cancer.

Understanding the nature of these materials, the conditions under which exposure occurs, and the potential health impacts are essential for maritime workers. This knowledge not only helps in preventing accidents through proper safety practices but also prepares workers to act swiftly should they be accidentally exposed.

Types of Injuries Caused by Hazardous Material Exposure

Exposure to hazardous materials in the maritime industry can lead to a variety of injuries that not only endanger the immediate health of workers but also their long-term well-being and ability to work. These injuries encompass many different conditions, from respiratory problems that can significantly impair lung function to severe skin irritations and burns.

Furthermore, the impact of these injuries can extend beyond immediate physical injuries and diagnoses. They may result in chronic health conditions like cancer, which affect not only workers but their loved ones who take care of them.

Legal Rights and Protections for Affected Maritime Workers

Maritime workers who suffer injuries due to hazardous material exposure are protected by a variety of laws that aim to support injured maritime workers. Among these protections are the rights to claim compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation costs, lost earnings, and the broader impacts on their quality of life, including pain and suffering.

Legislation such as the Jones Act and general maritime law play key roles in helping maritime workers, giving them a way to pursue the benefits they are legally entitled to. It’s essential for maritime workers to be aware of these protections to advocate effectively for themselves following an incident.

Working with a maritime injury attorney familiar with the nuances of maritime law can be instrumental in navigating the claims process, particularly if your employer is attempting to stop you from getting benefits.

Steps to Take Following Exposure to Hazardous Materials

Upon experiencing exposure to hazardous materials in the maritime sector, it is crucial to act immediately to safeguard both your immediate and future health, as well as your legal rights.

The initial and most crucial step is to get prompt medical treatment. This not only addresses any immediate health concerns but also creates a medical record of the exposure and its effects, which can be vital for any future compensation claims. This can be challenging if you are aboard a vessel that isn’t near any medical care facilities; in these situations, you should take advantage of first aid options onboard the vessel and seek more thorough care as early as possible.

It is equally important to report the incident to your employer immediately after it happens. This not only fulfills your legal obligations but also ensures that the necessary workplace safety measures can be reviewed and improved to prevent future incidents. If you have to fill out any documentation to report the incident, get a copy so you can provide it to your attorney if necessary.

Protect Yourself After a Maritime Injury with Reeves & Mestayer

The sooner you seek medical attention after a maritime injury, the sooner you can begin building a case and pursuing the compensation you’re legally entitled to. Take the first step now by setting up a time to meet with our team; just call us at 228-374-5151 or send us a message online.