Mesothelioma victims can receive workers’ compensation, too

On behalf of Jeffrey Frederick of Frederick & Hagle posted in Workers’ Compensation on Thursday, March 10, 2016.

Eliminating safety risks from the workplace typically focuses on more imminent physical dangers, such as falls or dangerous machinery. Indeed, many workplace injuries in Illinois are the result of either dangerous accidents or repetitive strain, but there is another risk facing certain employees — asbestos. When a worker develops mesothelioma as a result of asbestos exposure at his or her workplace, workers’ compensation benefits can usually help address the associated medical costs.

While not actively used in most industries anymore, lingering asbestos in warehouses, manufacturing facilities and many other types of buildings can still pose a serious threat. When inhaled, asbestos fibers can cause a range of devastating diseases. One of the most problematic medical conditions associated with asbestos is the often-fatal lung cancer mesothelioma.

Workers in industries that once dealt heavily with asbestos — such as mining and construction — must rely on employers to provide necessary precautions and safety equipment when working around asbestos. Unfortunately, not everyone can rely on their boss to keep them safe. Whether for cost cutting measures or out of pure and simple negligence, some employers fail to educate their employees on the dangers of asbestos exposure to even inform them that they will be dealing with the substance.

Terminal illnesses can place an enormous burden on Illinois families. When that illness is caused by an individual’s attempt to provide for his or her family through gainful employment, it can be even more devastating. Although mesothelioma and other asbestos related diseases do not have a bright outlook, we take great pride in the careful guidance we provide our clients who are seeking workers’ compensation benefits. Often, these benefits are the key to providing continued financial stability.