In some jobs, there are occupational diseases that can lead to health issues. This means every Ohio worker needs to know a few things to protect their wellbeing.

Workers’ compensation is one way that Ohio workers are protected against occupational diseases and a good attorney can help if you or a loved one is suffering. So, what are occupational diseases and what does an Ohio worker need to know?

For starters, occupational diseases are those that develop while performing their work, where that risk created by that work is, in general, greater that the risk faced by other workers or the general public. These claims can be complex, and require specific information from a medical provider – but an attorney can help you navigate the system.

Some examples of occupational diseases are:

1. Respiratory ailments, due to exposure to dust, chemicals or other harmful substances
2. Skin ailments caused by chemicals, plants or other substances
3. Hearing loss, caused by long-term exposure to noise in the workplace
4. Repetitive stress injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome, caused by repeated motion or vibration
5. Infectious diseases, often experienced by health care workers who are at more risk of encountering these ailments
If you have what you believe is an occupational disease and you believe you are entitled to workers’ compensation, there are a few criteria you must meet.

These include:

1. You must prove your disease was contracted as a result of your job
2. Your job must expose you to the hazard or risk more so than is faced by the general public or other workers in their general workdays
3. You must prove a causal link between your disease and your job.

This is why a highly qualified workers’ compensation attorney should be on your team. The law is complicated and to protect your rights, you need an advocate who will fight for you: Gathering evidence, assessing your risk, proving causation and navigating your
claim.

Connor Turano and Hafenstein LLP

If you or someone you love still has questions about Ohio workers’ compensation benefits, we can help. We have a qualified attorney for you. Contact us today.