Workplace injuries don’t always happen suddenly—some develop over time due to prolonged exposure to harmful substances. These cases, known as occupational exposure claims, can involve serious, long-term health effects. If you’ve been exposed to hazardous chemicals, asbestos, mold, or other dangerous substances at work, you may be entitled to compensation under New Jersey law.
What Is Occupational Exposure?
Occupational exposure refers to harmful contact with physical, chemical, or biological agents in the workplace. This exposure can occur through inhalation, skin absorption, ingestion, or contact with mucous membranes. Common hazards include:
- Asbestos and lead
- Silica dust
- Benzene, solvents, and industrial chemicals
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Mold, bacteria, or viruses
- Radiation or electromagnetic fields
Repeated or prolonged exposure may lead to conditions like lung disease, cancer, neurological disorders, skin diseases, or reproductive harm. In many cases, symptoms don’t appear until years after exposure, making legal claims especially complex.
Common Illnesses Caused by Workplace Exposure
Some of the most serious work-related illnesses include:
- Asbestosis and mesothelioma
- Occupational asthma and COPD
- Dermatitis and skin cancer
- Leukemia from benzene exposure
- Liver and kidney disease from heavy metals
- Silicosis from construction and mining dust
Even office workers and healthcare providers can suffer exposure-related injuries depending on their environment and job duties.
Filing an Occupational Exposure Claim
New Jersey allows injured workers to file a workers’ compensation claim for occupational exposure injuries. However, these claims often require more documentation and expert testimony than standard injury cases. You must prove that:
- You were exposed to the harmful substance while performing your job duties
- The exposure caused or significantly contributed to your illness
- The employer knew or should have known about the hazard
Since many occupational diseases take time to manifest, the statute of limitations typically begins when you discover (or should have reasonably discovered) the illness and its connection to your job.
Third-Party Liability and Additional Compensation
If a third party—such as a contractor, equipment manufacturer, or property owner—contributed to your exposure, you may also be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit. This can allow you to recover damages not covered by workers’ comp, including:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages in cases of gross negligence
It’s essential to speak with an attorney to evaluate your full range of legal options.
Why ASK LAW FIRM LLC?
ASK Law Firm LLC has helped countless New Jersey workers recover compensation for occupational exposure injuries. With offices in Hackensack and Woodbridge, our attorneys understand the science, law, and medical issues surrounding these complex cases. We partner with medical experts, toxicologists, and environmental specialists to build strong, evidence-backed claims for our clients.
Whether through workers’ compensation or third-party litigation, we fight to get you the financial support you need for treatment, lost income, and long-term care.
To learn more, visit our occupational exposure lawyer Middlesex County NJ page.
Contact ASK LAW FIRM LLC Today
Don’t wait to seek legal guidance. Delays in filing can affect your ability to recover compensation. Let our experienced attorneys review your case and explain your rights during a free, no-obligation consultation.
- Hackensack Office: 15 Warren St #20, Hackensack, NJ 07601
- Woodbridge Office: 1460 US-9 Suite 301, Woodbridge, NJ 07095
ASK Law Firm LLC: Protecting New Jersey workers from the hidden dangers of toxic exposure—one case at a time.