Image source There was a significant increase in public awareness of work-related injuries and diseases after the government started com...
There was a significant increase in public awareness of
work-related injuries and diseases after the government started compensating
civil servants for illnesses resulting from workplace hazards. While the
awareness increased, occupational diseases continued to cause serious health
problems, leading to a staggering number of deaths. Each year, an estimated 160
million occupational illnesses and about two million fatalities occur
worldwide, according to the International Labor Organization (ILO).
Workers suffer from occupational diseases (OD) as a result
of hazardous workplace conditions. Workplace exposure levels and worker
sensitivities determine the types of OD hazards. In addition to causing chronic
illnesses, ODs may also be fatal without preventative measures.
Occupational safety and health programs are required by
recent regulations to combat the dangers of occupational diseases. Following
are some of the most common occupational diseases and some helpful advice on
preventing them.
1. Cancer - Mesothelioma
Across the United States, asbestos has been used for
roofing, flooring, and insulation for decades. Several of these buildings are
still operational. In the construction of these structures, workers suffered
from asbestos exposure. Upon entering the lungs, these fibers can lodge,
causing inflammation and scarring. These particles can eventually cause
asbestos-related diseases, particularly mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is lung cancer and, unfortunately, has a 7.3%
survival rate. If you’re already suffering from the disease, you can take all
the necessary measures for cancer treatment. Regular follow-ups, blood tests,
and a healthy diet are necessary steps in caring for yourself once diagnosed.
Many people may not be able to deal with the loss financially. In that case,
they can file a mesothelioma lawsuit and get financial compensation for their
suffering plus treatment. If you’re unsure about mesothelioma lawsuit
guidelines, hire an attorney to learn how
settlements are determined. Your lawyer will determine your case value and
demand a certain amount to provide you with the much-needed ease.
How to prevent it?
If you haven’t been diagnosed with mesothelioma but doubt
exposure to asbestos, you can take preventive measures. Construction workers
are at the greatest risk of this disease because they work with materials that
may contain asbestos. They can make sure their company provides all the
necessary PPE, which can protect them from the asbestos fumes, like disposable
coveralls, respirators, rubber gloves, and safety glasses. Moreover, they can
ensure that they get adequate training before entering their field of work to
protect themselves.
2. Occupational Asthma
According to research, up to 15 percent of asthma cases are
due to work-related factors. A common symptom of asthma is difficulty in
breathing. It also causes chest tightness, coughing, and other symptoms
associated with the respiratory system. The causes of occupational asthma
encompass a diverse range of factors, from environmental irritants like
chlorine and ammonia to allergic reactions to animals and materials.
People with different immune systems are affected
differently by the disease. Excessive or constant exposure to asthma triggers
can permanently damage the lungs.
How to get help?
It is possible to avoid factors that cause respiratory
problems to prevent occupational asthma. An allergist or immunologist can
answer and diagnose symptoms; they may suggest medications to alleviate
breathing difficulties.
3. COVID-19 Exposure
Coronavirus is now part of the list of possible occupational
diseases workers may contract in the workplace. According to OSHA's
"Worker Exposure Risk to COVID-19," some occupations naturally have
higher exposure risk than others. The highest exposure risk is for healthcare
and morgue workers.
Those exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus (the cause of
COVID-19) at work must take the highest level of precautions.
How to Stay Safe?
In order to combat the spread of the highly contagious
disease, governments and regulatory agencies have promoted COVID-19 prevention
guidelines. Experts suggest frequent hand washing with an antiseptic handwash
(in lieu of soap) for control and prevention. In addition, avoiding face
contact, using proper etiquette when coughing or sneezing (covering your
mouth), and recognizing personal risk factors are also necessary preventive
steps.
4. Contact Dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is the most common form of occupational
skin disease caused by various factors, including chemicals, radiation,
animals, plants, parasites, etc. According to the National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health, thirteen million workers in the U.S. may be
exposed to factors that can cause skin diseases.
In the United States, occupational skin diseases, such as
contact dermatitis, or eczema, account for the majority of skin diseases.
Itching, pain, redness, and flaky skin are common symptoms.
Preventive measures
Cool dressings or medications like steroids are essential
when contact dermatitis becomes too severe. It is possible to reduce the risk
of skin diseases initially by applying sunscreen, dressing in protective
clothing, and staying away from hazardous chemicals.
5. Loss of Hearing
Another major occupational disease is hearing loss resulting
from the workplace, similar to contact dermatitis. NIOSH estimates nearly 22
million workers are exposed to noise levels above the Recommended Exposure
Limit. Loud noises and ototoxic
chemicals can cause occupational hearing loss. The symptoms range from mild
to total loss of hearing.
How To Stay Safe From It?
The best way to stay safe from occupational hearing loss is
to prevent it from occurring in the first place. Noise levels are regulated by
health and safety professionals using the Hierarchy of Control. The best
approach is to eliminate hazardous noise. Using personal protective equipment
is the least effective method, followed by replacement, control, establishing,
and setting limits.
6. Heat Illness
For workers exposed to direct sunlight or hot, stuffy areas,
heat illness is a potentially serious occupational disease. A worker may
develop heat illness if exposed to heat for a long time or to extreme heat for
short periods.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more than 800
people died from heat-related illnesses between 1992 and 2017. The elderly,
overweight, and those with heart disease are especially susceptible to heat
illness. Its symptoms ranged from dizziness, nausea, and even fainting, to
weakness, headaches, and sweating.
Safety Measures
Heat illness can be avoided by staying hydrated, wearing
light-colored clothing, and resting in shady places.
Conclusion
Occupational diseases have always been present, and new
methods are being developed to reduce these hazards. The growing body of data
shows that most accidents can be prevented by employers and workers. Relatively
simple changes in the working environment, work procedures, management, and
safety practices can reduce accident rates by 50% or more, even in high-risk
industries, relatively quickly.