Work-related illnesses can significantly affect your health and job. In New Jersey, workers’ compensation laws help workers who get sick due to their jobs. Knowing your rights and what to do can help you deal with this process.
Common occupational diseases
Occupational diseases are illnesses associated with a particular occupation or industry. They are often the result of factors present or encountered in a work environment. Common examples include:
- Asbestos-related diseases: Asbestos exposure can lead to illnesses such as asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.
- Hearing loss: Long-term exposure to loud noises at work can harm your hearing.
- Silicosis: Inhaling silica dust daily in mining and construction can severely damage your lungs.
- Repetitive stress injuries: Tasks involving repetitive motions, such as typing or assembly work, can lead to conditions like carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Chemical exposure: Even brief chemical exposure can lead to serious health problems.
Follow safety procedures at work and wear proper protective gear. If your workplace has Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) violations, report them to authorities.
Worker’s compensation eligibility
To qualify for compensation, you need to meet the following:
- Your illness or injury must be work-related.
- You must report the illness or injury within 2 years of discovering it.
- You must provide medical evidence of your claims.
- You must demonstrate that your illness or injury caused a disability affecting your ability to work.
When you tell your employer about your sickness or injury, you can start the claims process.
The claims process
To claim workers’ compensation, you need to do the following:
- Consult a doctor: Seek medical attention when you feel anything or suspect that you may have an occupational disease. Proper diagnosis and documentation are vital in claiming compensation.
- Tell your employer: Notify your employer as soon as possible. With proper written notice, your workers’ compensation claims can proceed.
- File a claim: Complete the necessary workers’ compensation forms and submit them to your employer’s insurance carrier.
If you have trouble filing the claim or need help with your workers’ compensation, consider contacting a lawyer.