Railroad workers operate in high-risk environments such as being in close contact with moving trains and working with hazardous substances. This makes the nature of their jobs risky and a common source of physical injuries and occupational diseases.
Exposure to chemicals
Railroad workers usually maintain tracks and use various rail equipment. This makes them in close or direct contact with toxic substances such as diesel exhaust, asbestos, lead and silica dust.
When they inhale these chemicals, the particles can make their way through the respiratory tract and cause irritation. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals may also lead to life-threatening conditions such as lung disease, renal disease or cancer.
Hearing loss
Since railroad workers usually stay near the tracks, their ears are often exposed to the loud noise of passing trains and their powerful horns. According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, an “A-weighted decibel” or dBA of 130 is a noise level that is not safe for any period of time.
However, most train horns measure between 110 to 140 dB, making them incredibly loud and damaging for the ears. Because of this, the workers are at risk of developing noise-induced hearing loss.
Your right to compensation starts with a FELA claim
Since 1908, injured workers in the railroad industry have been protected by the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA). Under the FELA law, employees can hold their employers liable for damages that occurred from workplace negligence.
To help ensure that you can receive fair compensation for your injury or illness, you must seek the guidance of a lawyer who can sue your employer on your behalf and advocate for your rights.
