Chicago is a bustling city that is always growing and changing. Construction sites are a common sight in the city and there is usually at least one project going on at any given time. Working in the construction industry in Chicago can be a rewarding experience but it also comes with certain risks.

Injuries can occur on the job, and these injuries can be serious and long-lasting. If you suffer an injury on the job, you contact a Chicago Workers’ Compensation Lawyer. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you file the proper claims and seek out justice.

It is important to be aware of the most common construction site injuries and to know that they often fall under the Workers’ Compensation claim. Knowing that these injuries are covered under Workers’ Compensation can help you in the event of an injury, and make sure that you are able to get the compensation you deserve.

Illness From Exposure To Chemicals

One of the most common illnesses that develop due to exposure to chemicals on construction sites is skin irritation. Skin irritation can be caused by contact with hazardous materials such as paint, solvents, paint thinners, and other chemicals. Symptoms of skin irritation can include redness, itching, and burning. In addition, contact with some chemicals can lead to more serious skin conditions such as dermatitis, which can cause blistering, cracking, and peeling of the skin.

Inhalation of hazardous chemicals is also a common cause of illnesses on construction sites. Inhalation of paint fumes, solvents, and other toxic substances can cause respiratory issues. Symptoms of inhalation can include difficulty breathing, coughing, chest tightness, and headaches. In addition, inhalation of some chemicals can cause long-term respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, and other chronic illnesses.

Asbestos is a dangerous material that can cause a number of serious illnesses if it is inhaled or ingested. Asbestos exposure can cause asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Lead can cause poisoning, headaches, fatigue, memory loss, and in severe cases, death.

Burns

Burns are another injury that often occurs on construction sites due to the presence of hazardous materials and electrical equipment. Thermal burns are caused by contact with hot surfaces, such as hot pipes or radiators. These burns can range from mild to severe and can cause permanent skin damage. 

Chemical burns are another type of burn that can occur on construction sites, and these can be caused by exposure to strong acids, alkalis, and other hazardous materials. Electricity is also a common hazard on construction sites, and electric shock or electric burns can occur if the electrical equipment is not handled properly. The severity of electric burns depends on the voltage and amount of current that has been in contact with the skin.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Falls from ladders, scaffolding, or roofs can cause severe trauma to the spine, and can lead to paralysis or other long-term physical impairments. Heavy lifting can also lead to spinal cord injury, as repeated or forceful lifting can cause strain on the back muscles and ligaments. Operating heavy machinery without proper safety precautions can be dangerous, and can lead to a range of spinal cord injuries. Construction workers should always use caution when operating such equipment and be aware of how to properly use it.

Construction sites are often filled with sharp or jagged objects, such as nails, saws, or other tools. Contact with these objects can cause lacerations or punctures to the skin, and can lead to serious spinal cord injuries.

Damage To Vision

Working on construction sites can have a negative effect on vision due to the presence of hazardous materials, dust, and debris. Working in a dusty environment or in areas with poor ventilation can increase the risk of eye irritation. Contact with foreign objects like sawdust, nails, and other debris can cause eye injuries contributing to vision loss. Exposure to paint, glue, and solvent can cause irritation, and in some cases, permanent damage to the eyes.

Operating power tools and other machinery can cause eye injuries, as these tools can produce sparks and other particles that may come in contact with the eyes. The use of protective eyewear is key to preventing eye injuries and should be worn at all times when working on construction sites. Long-term exposure to bright sunlight can also cause eye damage, and workers should be sure to wear sunglasses and other protective eyewear when outdoors.

It is clear that working on construction sites in a big city like Chicago comes with its challenges. As a construction worker, it is important to be aware of the dangers and take the necessary safety precautions to protect your health and well-being. In the event of an injury, you deserve to be compensated for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Reach out to an attorney if you have any additional questions.