What Are the Dangers of Working with Solvents?

March 24, 2022
West Chester Workers' Compensation Lawyers at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello Help Workers Who Have Been Exposed to Toxic Solvents.

There are hundreds, if not thousands, of workers in the Philadelphia region that work with solvents on a daily basis. Solvents are a necessity for many production facilities. However, there are dozens of solvents that are dangerous to workers, and contact with these solvents can cause serious work-related injuries.

Pennsylvania workers need to understand the dangers of using solvents and coming into contact with the substances, particularly within industrial work spaces.

There are dozens of different kinds of solvents used in various industries and production processes. Often, solvents are used in the construction industry, manufacturing industries, and industrial procedures and processes. Here is a list of just a few of the more dangerous solvents that are in common use in Pennsylvania:

There are many more solvents for specific uses in particular industries and processes. However, whatever solvent you may be working with, they can be very dangerous.

Short-Term Exposure Health Issues

There are short-term health effects that many workers experience when they are briefly exposed to certain types of solvents. This is not a comprehensive list, but just some of the more common health problems employees experience:

  • Dermatitis or skin problems and irritation
  • Headaches
  • Drowsiness
  • Breathing issues and shortness of breath
  • Poor coordination
  • Slurred speech
  • Nausea and vomiting

Many of these symptoms will appear when exposed to solvent vapors, which is less likely to be perceived as a hazard than when one sees a liquid chemical and/or when coming in physical contact with a dangerous solvent. These symptoms are often temporary and will go away when the worker is removed from the area of the solvent. However, if there is long-term exposure, continuous and more serious symptoms could occur.

Long-Term Exposure Health Issues

Long-term exposure to toxic solvents can be significant and can cause long-term disability from work:

  • Brain tumors
  • Nervous system issues
  • Long-term dermatitis, causing unsightly scarring
  • Liver damage
  • Blood diseases
  • Peripheral neuropathy
  • Sleep disorders
  • Short- and long-term memory loss
  • Reduced attention span
  • Dementia
  • Kidney damage
  • Lung damage
  • Fertility issues for both sexes
  • Pregnancy issues, including spontaneous abortions and fetal development problems

What if I am Exposed to Dangerous Solvents at Work?

If you are exposed to dangerous, toxic solvents at work and are having health effects from that exposure, it is wise to speak with a lawyer who is experienced in Workers’ Compensation cases. If the exposure has caused you to miss work and need medical treatment, you need help to make sure you receive all of the Workers’ Compensation benefits for which you are entitled. These cases can become very complex and hard to prove.

 

West Chester Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello Help Workers Who Have Been Exposed to Toxic Solvents

Those who have been injured at work by exposure to toxic solvents may be entitled to Workers’ Compensation benefits. The West Chester Workers’ Compensation lawyers at the Law Office of Deborah M. Truscello have represented injured workers for over two decades. We will investigate the cause of the accident and fight to obtain the compensation for which you are entitled. Learn more at a free consultation by filling out an online registration form or calling 610-892-4940. Our office is in Media, Pennsylvania. We represent clients in Media, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Lancaster, Montgomery County, Norristown, Philadelphia, Reading, West Chester, and throughout Pennsylvania.

 

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