Every day, workers across the country are exposed to harmful chemicals, dust, fumes, or other substances that can cause serious long-term health issues. Unfortunately, many of these individuals were never properly warned, trained, or protected. If this sounds familiar, you are not alone and you may have legal options.
At Shrader & Associates, L.L.P., we’ve represented workers from high-risk industries who developed serious illnesses due to toxic exposure on the job. We help clients pursue justice, compensation and peace of mind.
This article outlines what toxic exposure looks like in the workplace, what your legal rights are, and what steps to take if you or a loved one has been affected. You can also visit our blog resources for more specific guidance in situations where you were never warned about workplace risks. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
Understanding Toxic Exposure in the Workplace
Toxic exposure occurs when a worker inhales, ingests, or comes into skin contact with a harmful substance. This can happen during one-time incidents or, more commonly, from repeated contact over time, and crucially, this is often without noticeable symptoms at first.
Common Toxic Substances
Workers may be exposed to:
- Asbestos – linked to mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis
- Benzene – associated with leukemia and other blood disorders
- Lead – causes neurological damage and organ failure
- Silica dust – leads to silicosis and lung disease
- Mold & industrial solvents – linked to respiratory illness and immune disorders
- PFAS, PCBs, heavy metals, and other industrial chemicals
High-Risk Industries
Certain professions face greater exposure risks, including:
- Construction workers (asbestos in building materials)
- Shipyard and military veterans (asbestos on naval ships, merchant marine ships)
- Oil refinery workers (oil and chemical exposure)
- Electricians, pipefitters, and machinists
- Painters exposed to solvents (lung disease risks)
- Veterans from all branches, especially Marine Corps and Navy (toxic exposure in the military)
Health Consequences of Long-Term Exposure
Exposure to toxic substances doesn’t always show symptoms right away. In many cases, workers don’t notice the effects until years later, when they receive a life-altering diagnosis.
Common Illnesses Linked to Toxic Exposure
- Mesothelioma (caused by asbestos)
- Leukemia and lymphoma (linked to benzene)
- Lung cancer, COPD, and silicosis
- Lead poisoning and brain damage
- Skin conditions, chronic fatigue, and organ damage
- Neurological issues (memory loss or tremors)
Signs and Symptoms to Watch For
If you’ve worked in a high-risk industry, certain symptoms could signal toxic exposure—even years after the fact. This such as:
- Chronic coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Unusual fatigue
- Chest tightness
- Unexplained weight loss
may point to a serious respiratory condition like mesothelioma or another occupational illness. In cases involving lead or chemical solvents, individuals may experience memory problems, mood swings, headaches, or even changes in coordination. These symptoms can appear slowly and be misdiagnosed, so it’s important to share your work history with your doctor if you suspect exposure.
Your Legal Rights as an Employee
No one should have to risk their health to earn a living. That’s why federal regulations exist to protect employees from hazardous substances in the workplace. When those protections fail, the law allows for accountability.
Understanding OSHA Protections
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) mandates that employers provide safe working conditions, including appropriate safety equipment, training, and warnings about hazardous substances. If your employer failed to meet these obligations, they may have violated federal law.
For example, employers are required to alert workers to the presence of asbestos or other toxic substances, offer protective equipment, and provide training on safe handling practices. If those steps were skipped—or warnings were withheld—legal action may be appropriate.
When Employers Can Be Held Liable
Employers may be held legally accountable if they:
- Failed to provide proper safety gear or protective equipment
- Did not inform workers about the presence of hazardous materials
- Ignored OSHA regulations regarding chemical handling or exposure limits
- Neglected to conduct air quality testing or health screenings
- Retaliated against workers who raised safety concerns
In many toxic exposure cases, liability doesn’t stop at the employer. Manufacturers of hazardous products, property owners, or third-party contractors may also share responsibility—especially when unsafe conditions span multiple job sites or companies.
Workers’ Comp vs. Personal Injury vs. Toxic Tort Claims
Depending on the details of your case, you may have multiple legal paths:
- Workers’ compensation: Provides medical benefits and wage replacement but typically you give up the right to sue your employer directly.
- Personal injury lawsuits: Allow you to seek compensation for pain and suffering, lost income, and long-term care—but require proof of negligence or misconduct.
- Toxic tort claims: Involve injuries caused by chemical exposure and may target employers, manufacturers, or other liable parties.
Each option has different eligibility requirements, deadlines, and legal strategies. That’s why choosing an experienced attorney is crucial.
Steps to Take if You Suspect Exposure
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms now or just learned of past exposure, taking action early can make a difference in your health and your case.
- Seek Medical Attention
Begin with a thorough physical exam. Let your doctor know you may have been exposed to toxic substances at work—especially asbestos, benzene, or lead. They may recommend a range of exploratory imaging scans, blood tests, or pulmonary function testing.
- Document Your Work History
Write down job sites, dates of employment, tasks performed, and any known chemicals or materials you worked with. Co-worker statements or union records can also support your case.
- Report the Hazard
Notify your employer (in writing if possible), and file a complaint with OSHA if there are ongoing risks. Even if the exposure occurred years ago, this step helps to continue with documenting the incident.
- Consult a Lawyer
A qualified attorney can review your records, determine potential liability, and help you understand your options. In many cases, multiple companies may share fault, especially in industrial or military settings.
How Shrader & Associates L.L.P Helps Workers Exposed to Toxins
At Shrader & Associates, L.L.P., we’ve spent decades helping employees and veterans harmed by toxic exposure. Our team is deeply familiar with the industries and legal complexities involved in these cases.
We start by offering a free case evaluation, where we review things such as your exposure history and what symptoms you are experiencing. Then, we build a legal strategy tailored to your situation—whether it’s a workers’ comp claim, a toxic tort lawsuit, or a class-action effort.
We’ve successfully represented workers and veterans from a wide range of fields—including electricians, refinery employees, construction workers, and shipyard laborers—and we’re proud of the meaningful compensation and peace of mind we’ve helped our clients secure.
Start Your Legal Journey with Confidence
Toxic exposure at work isn’t always obvious at first. But over time it can leave serious and lasting consequences. If you believe your health has been affected by hazardous conditions on the job, you don’t have to face it alone.
Shrader & Associates, L.L.P. is here to help you take the next step. We’ll guide you through your rights and evaluate your case then fight for the compensation you deserve. Whether it’s asbestos, benzene, lead, or another harmful substance, we’re prepared to advocate on your behalf with compassion and skill.