New Jersey Occupational Exposure Lawyers

All Practice Areas

At The Epstein Law Firm, P.A., we are steadfast advocates for workers who have suffered from occupational diseases and workplace injuries. These conditions often result from prolonged exposure to hazardous materials, repetitive physical demands, or inadequate safety measures in the workplace. Our New Jersey occupational exposure lawyers understand that such health issues can disrupt every aspect of an individual’s life, from their financial stability to their family relationships and overall well-being. Our mission is to support clients through the often complex claims process, helping them secure rightful compensation, address immediate health and financial needs, and hold employers accountable for failing to provide a safe working environment.

 

Understanding Occupational Diseases and Workplace Risks

Occupational diseases affect workers across various industries but are especially common in sectors with high exposure to toxins, airborne hazards, physical strain, and unsafe practices. Employees in construction, manufacturing, healthcare, and chemical processing are particularly vulnerable to chronic diseases and injuries due to repeated exposure to hazardous materials, inadequate protective measures, and physical strain. Our firm has extensive experience handling complex occupational health cases and is dedicated to securing justice for those who suffer due to workplace neglect.

We represent clients in cases involving a wide range of occupational diseases and workplace injuries, including:

Respiratory Diseases
Conditions such as silicosis, mesothelioma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and occupational asthma. These illnesses often arise from long-term exposure to harmful substances like silica, asbestos, and other toxic airborne particles.

Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs)
Injuries like repetitive strain injuries (RSIs), carpal tunnel syndrome, tendinitis, and chronic back pain. These conditions are frequently caused by repetitive tasks, heavy lifting, and poor ergonomic practices, often without adequate support or rest.

Neurological and Cognitive Impairments
Conditions such as lead poisoning, solvent-related neurotoxicity, and pesticide exposure, which can cause neurological damage and cognitive impairments, affecting an individual’s motor skills, memory, and overall mental health.

Skin Disorders
Chronic dermatitis, chemical burns, and other skin conditions resulting from continuous contact with caustic substances, solvents, and industrial materials.

Systemic Diseases and Cancer
Severe conditions such as mesothelioma, liver and kidney damage, blood disorders, and specific cancers linked to workplace exposure to toxins like asbestos, benzene, and heavy metals.

 

What Causes Occupational Diseases?

Occupational diseases are frequently caused by unsafe working conditions, repeated exposure to hazardous substances, and failure to implement proper safety protocols. Common causes of workplace diseases include:

Chemical and Toxin Exposure
Workers in manufacturing, chemical processing, and construction industries are routinely exposed to dangerous substances like benzene, lead, asbestos, and silica dust. When employers fail to provide adequate PPE or proper ventilation, these exposures can lead to severe and sometimes fatal health issues.

Airborne Particles and Respiratory Risks
Dust, fumes, fibers, and gases are prevalent in construction, mining, welding, and metalworking. Without effective ventilation and respiratory protection, these airborne hazards can cause irreversible respiratory damage.

Repetitive Physical Strain and Ergonomic Issues
Jobs that involve repetitive tasks, such as assembly line work or heavy lifting, can lead to chronic musculoskeletal injuries and long-term disability. Ergonomic interventions are essential to reducing these risks but are often neglected.

Noise and Vibration Exposure
Exposure to excessive noise and vibrations from machinery can result in hearing loss, tinnitus, and nerve damage. Proper ear protection and equipment maintenance are critical to reducing these risks.

Biological Hazards
Healthcare workers, waste management personnel, and laboratory staff are often exposed to biological hazards, increasing their risk for communicable diseases, including hepatitis, tuberculosis, and other infections.

Our New Jersey occupational exposure lawyers work diligently to identify and document these causes, building a strong case to secure justice and compensation for affected workers.

 

Your Rights and Legal Claims for Occupational Diseases

Every worker has the legal right to a safe workplace. When employers fail to meet safety standards and workers develop health issues due to workplace exposure, they have a legal right to pursue compensation. The Epstein Law Firm is dedicated to protecting workers’ rights, helping them understand their options, and advocating for fair compensation for their suffering.

Our legal services for occupational disease and workplace injury claims include:

Workers’ Compensation Claims
We help clients file claims under workers’ compensation to secure coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and more. If a claim is initially denied, we assist with appeals to ensure fair review.

Third-Party Claims

If a third-party entity, such as an equipment manufacturer, supplier, or contractor, contributed to the unsafe conditions, we can pursue additional compensation through a separate third-party claim.

OSHA Violation Claims
We investigate whether OSHA standards were violated and leverage these violations to strengthen our clients’ cases, showing clear negligence in workplace safety.

Class-Action and Mass Tort Cases
We represent groups of employees impacted by similar hazardous exposures, such as asbestos, lead, or toxic chemicals, allowing workers to collectively seek justice.

Permanent Disability and Long-Term Needs Claims
For clients facing lifelong conditions, we pursue compensation that covers future medical expenses, physical therapy, adaptive equipment, and ongoing care.

 

Steps in Filing an Occupational Disease or Workplace Injury Claim

1. Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
   Schedule a consultation with our team to discuss your health condition, employment history, and workplace exposure details. Our attorneys will help you assess your legal options, determine the strength of your case, and outline the next steps.

2. Collecting Evidence and Medical Documentation
   We gather comprehensive medical records, exposure documentation, witness statements, and any OSHA citations. This evidence helps establish a clear link between your health condition and your work environment.

3. Filing the Claim
   Our team assists in submitting a workers’ compensation claim with the employer and the workers’ compensation board, ensuring all required forms and documentation are complete. If a third party contributed to the exposure, we initiate a separate legal action to address that responsibility.

4. Responding to Employer’s Insurer
   The employer’s insurance provider will review the claim and may request additional information. Our attorneys handle all communications with the insurer, ensuring that your case is not delayed or compromised by procedural missteps.

5. Appealing Denied Claims
   If your claim is denied, we can file an appeal. Our team will compile additional evidence, consult with medical experts, and advocate on your behalf to secure a fair and just resolution.

6. Negotiation or Litigation for Compensation
   Our attorneys work to negotiate a fair settlement. If a satisfactory settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to litigate the case in court to pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.

 

Preventive and Protective Measures

Employers are legally obligated to maintain a safe working environment. When they fail to meet these obligations, they place workers at severe risk of harm. At The Epstein Law Firm, we believe in holding employers accountable and promoting preventive practices to protect workers’ health and well-being.

Preventive measures include:

Industrial Hygiene and Regular Safety Audits
Employers should conduct routine workplace evaluations and safety audits to identify and mitigate risks. Hygiene practices, such as ventilation and proper storage of chemicals, are essential for worker protection.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Employers must provide PPE such as gloves, respirators, goggles, and ear protection, as appropriate to the job’s risks, and ensure proper training on PPE use.

Safety and Health Training Programs
Comprehensive training on handling hazardous substances, ergonomics, lifting techniques, and emergency response protocols is essential to reducing preventable injuries.

Medical Surveillance and Health Screenings
Routine health checks and surveillance programs allow early detection of work-related health issues, especially in high-risk environments.

Ergonomic and Workstation Adjustments
Employers should implement ergonomic solutions, such as adjustable equipment and duty rotations, to minimize repetitive strain injuries.

 

Why Choose New Jersey Occupational Exposure Lawyers at The Epstein Law Firm, P.A.?

With extensive experience in occupational health law, The Epstein Law Firm provides skilled and dedicated representation to clients suffering from workplace injuries and diseases. Our firm’s reputation is built on personalized service, in-depth legal expertise, and a commitment to achieving justice for each client.

Our clients benefit from:

• Decades of Occupational Health Case Experience: With extensive knowledge of New Jersey’s occupational health and safety regulations, we have the experience needed to build compelling cases.
• Customized Legal Support: We take a client-centered approach, ensuring that we address each client’s unique needs and circumstances with flexibility and empathy.
• Network of Medical and Safety Experts: We work closely with top medical and occupational health experts to document the full extent of our clients’ injuries and link them to workplace exposure.
• Strong Track Record of Success: We have a proven history of securing favorable outcomes for our clients, achieving settlements and verdicts that provide relief and stability.
• No Upfront Costs: Our contingency-based fee structure ensures that clients pay nothing unless we win their case, making quality representation accessible.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the common occupational diseases caused by workplace exposure?
Common conditions include respiratory illnesses like mesothelioma and COPD, musculoskeletal disorders, neurological impairments from toxins, skin conditions, and even certain types of cancer.

What should I do if I suspect my illness is related to work exposure?
Seek medical attention, inform your employer, and document your symptoms and workplace exposure. Contact our firm to evaluate your legal options and guide you through the next steps.

How long do I have to file an occupational disease claim?
In New Jersey, workers typically have two years from the date of diagnosis to file a claim, but specific timelines may vary. It’s best to consult our New Jersey occupational exposure lawyers promptly to ensure compliance.

What if my employer denies responsibility?
Employers may deny claims, but we can help gather evidence and expert testimony to establish a link between your illness and workplace conditions, strengthening your case.

Can I file a lawsuit even if I’ve accepted workers’ compensation?
Yes. If a third party contributed to your exposure (such as a product manufacturer), you may have grounds for a separate claim.

How much compensation can I expect to receive?
Compensation depends on the severity of your illness, medical costs, lost income, and long-term health impacts. We work diligently to secure full compensation for both immediate and future expenses.

 

Contact The Epstein Law Firm, P.A.’s  New Jersey Occupational Exposure Lawyers Today

If you or a loved one is suffering from an occupational disease or workplace injury, The Epstein Law Firm, P.A. is here to help. Our experienced team provides free consultations to discuss your case, explore your options, and take the first steps toward securing the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait—reach out to our firm today and let us help you find relief and support.