It is safe to say that most oil and gas workers are aware of the many accident and injury risks associated with their occupations.
Unfortunately, not many people understand that such jobs may also pose a risk of developing occupational illnesses.
What are some illnesses inherent to oil field employment?
The oil America uses for energy is a toxic substance. Even when refined and made ready for use, it remains toxic. When workers face exposure to this substance through all stages of its processing and refinement, they remain at risk of developing illnesses, many of them potentially serious. Prolonged exposure could result in the health issues listed below:
- Vision and eye problems such as blurred vision
- Nose bleeds and sores
- Ear infections
- Respiratory conditions like bronchitis and asthma
- Throat and lung infections or cancers
- Headaches
- Digestive problems such as ulcers, vomiting or cancer
- Skin rashes or cancer
- Liver, kidney and bone marrow damage
- Problems with the reproductive system in women workers
Prolonged exposure to oil and gas fumes may also cause hallucinations, slurred speech, fatigue, brain damage and even coma. When oil field accidents occur, toxic chemicals and materials can enter the atmosphere, which could increase your odds of contracting a severe illness.
Fortunately for San Antonio oil field employees, workers’ compensation can help you manage your illness by covering your medical expenses and replacing lost earnings. However, it is often harder to prove an occupational illness than to prove an oil field accident-related injury.
Learning as much as possible about how workers’ comp handles occupational illnesses can ensure that you get the compensation you need and deserve.