Allergic Injuries In The Workplace

If you suddenly have allergy problems when you're at your work, then you may be able to get workers compensation if the allergies get bad enough so that you can no longer work at your regular job. However, the legalities of allergies in the workplace can be complicated, and just because you suffer from them during your work hours doesn't mean you qualify for any compensation, accommodation, or time off. Certain conditions should be met, such as some of those listed below.

Your allergies must be related to your job:

In order to get compensated for allergies at work, it has to be proven that your workplace, or something related to your job, is the cause of your allergies. For example, if your allergies are non-existent, or mild, while you're away from work, but bad only at work, then you may have a case. This is especially true if you arrive at work feeling fine and steadily get worse throughout the day.

The exact cause should be determined:

To further prove your case, you may have to prove what, exactly, is causing your allergies. Common examples are things such as a cleaner or chemical, or a change in the workplace such as someone bringing their pet to work. Sometimes, you can develop allergies over time even to things you weren't allergic to in the beginning. It also helps to strengthen your case if you can prove that you either weren't allergic in the past or that your allergies weren't as severe until recently. Though it helps if you can determine an exact cause, it's not always necessary in every situation.

You must prove your injuries:

Once you've figured out that your workplace is causing your allergies, you must prove that you are being injured or your work quality has suffered because of them. Simply being uncomfortable is not a reason for getting workers compensation, though it may give you the right to ask for reasonable accommodations, such as moving to a different work location. An example of an allergic injury could be anaphylaxic shock, a severe asthma attack or a rash upon exposure which would send you to the hospital or cause you to leave work early.

Injuries from allergic reactions in the workplace are often hard to prove, especially if you've already been prone to allergies and you can't pinpoint the cause. Be sure to document your allergies while at work and talk to an attorney who is knowledgeable about personal injury and workers compensation. Don't let your work-related allergies put you out of work or cost you a lot of money in treatment without consulting an attorney. Click here for more info about this topic.