New York Chemical Exposure Lawyer

When you work in a city with as much history as New York, you may frequently find yourself in buildings that are well over a hundred years old with numerous dangerous and deadly chemicals and toxins. Sometimes, chemical exposure comes as a result of one’s employment. Even when adequate safety measures are followed, accidents can still occur. Exposure can occur simply as a result of being in a building that has not properly removed toxic substances. These substances can be found in the insulation or even the products that a building is manufacturing.

In a large number of cases, workers are unaware of their exposure to such hazardous agents until they are diagnosed with an illness or disease. With many chemicals, exposure over long-term periods can have disastrous effects on health and result in a fatality.

If you have been diagnosed with an injury, illness, or disease due to exposure to a toxic chemical or substance, you should reach out to a qualified chemical exposure law firm like Shulman & Hill. Our team of lawyers can discuss the details of your case and help you evaluate your options for seeking compensation for your injuries and damages.

Common Chemicals in New York People Can Be Exposed to Unknowingly

Some of the most common causes of exposure come not from working directly with the chemicals and toxins, but from working in areas where they are present, often in insulation or building materials. This means some of the most at-risk workers are those in the construction industry. Chemicals and toxins frequently encountered include:

Lead

This is a common toxin that can cause numerous harmful effects, including kidney damage, brain damage, and high blood pressure. Lead is often encountered when inhaling fumes or dust during the demolition of older buildings.

Asbestos

Asbestos is the name of a group of fibrous minerals that are prized for their strength and heat resistance. It is used in insulation, shingles, flooring materials, and even auto parts. Exposure to asbestos can result in mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, or a host of other lung and respiratory issues.

Flame Retardant Chemicals

Chemicals used to slow or stop the spread of fire are known to cause several different cancers. They are frequently found in insulation and textile manufacturing. Exposure has been known to cause harm to the endocrine system as well as to any developing embryos.

Cadmium

Cadmium is a heavy metal and is often found in products and materials made with lead and copper. Inhaling cadmium fumes over long periods of time can cause persistent symptoms similar to the flu, as well as permanent lung damage.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde has been known for many years as a potent carcinogen. Unfortunately, its use is still widely permitted. Formaldehyde is found in concentration in tiles, carpeting, and plywood. Exposure over long periods can lead to respiratory issues that mimic asthma as well as itchiness and irritation of the skin.

Gypsum

Gypsum is often found in wallboard, drywall, and plaster. Acute exposure can cause irritation to the eyes, skin, and mucous membranes.

New York Industries With High Chemical Exposure Rates

While the construction industry certainly has its fair share of chemical exposure accidents, it is far from the only industry that faces these issues. Residents of New York may be exposed to dangerous chemicals in countless different ways, both at home and at work. Other industries affected by chemical exposure include:

• Plumbers
• Electricians
• Boiler technicians
• U.S. Navy service members
• Construction workers
• Demolition workers
• Renovators, general contractors, subcontractors
• Manufacturing workers

Damages That Chemical Exposure Victims May Seek Compensation For

If you or someone you know has suffered from illnesses and injuries relating to chemical exposure, you know that the effects can be devastating to both the victim and their family.

Usually, the harmful effects of chemical exposure are only known once symptoms appear. Once diagnosed, a patient may need surgery, medication, or even a change in employment in order to recover. If you have worked with harmful chemicals and are feeling sick, you should visit your doctor immediately.

The initial diagnosis and treatment can come with expensive medical bills that can add stress to an already difficult situation. You may also have a complicated or lengthy treatment, healing, or recovery time which means you likely will need to miss work for some time. This can make it even more challenging to pay for your medical treatments.

Working with an experienced New York chemical exposure law firm like Shulman & Hill can help you seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, reduced ability to earn, and even your pain and suffering. They can work with you to build a strong case and can make sure that it is presented appropriately at every stage of the process.

Why Choose Shulman & Hill?

Shulman & Hill prides itself on always putting the clients’ needs and interests first. We will fight tirelessly to help you gain the respect, care, and peace of mind any human being would want after experiencing a chemical exposure illness or injury.

Shulman & Hill is not just well regarded because of our proven success rate, but because we also genuinely care about the individuals and families we serve. We hope to improve their emotional well-being as well as succeed in getting them fair financial compensation. Contact us today for a free legal consultation to learn more about how we can help you.