Call Us Today: +1 877 292 4888

Could Your Long-Term Skin Disorder Be Work-Related?

Living with a persistent skin condition like a chronic rash or unexplained redness can be frustrating, especially when common remedies don’t offer relief. While you might assume the cause is a random allergy or genetics, the source of your skin issue could be your job. Many chronic skin disorders, from contact dermatitis and eczema to more severe conditions like skin cancer, can be directly linked to a person’s work environment. If you suspect your condition is work-related, understanding this connection and knowing your rights is crucial for both your health and financial security.

Common Workplace Causes of Skin Conditions

The skin is our body’s primary defense, constantly exposed to a variety of environmental factors. In a workplace, these can become potent irritants or allergens that lead to injuries and disorders. The main culprits often fall into four categories:

  • Chemical Agents: This is a leading cause of work-related skin conditions. A wide range of chemicals can cause everything from minor irritation to severe chemical burns. Examples include irritants like strong acids and detergents, which cause immediate damage, and sensitizers like nickel and formaldehyde, which trigger allergic reactions after repeated exposure. Some chemicals, called photosensitizers, can even make your skin hypersensitive to sunlight.
  • Physical Agents: The physical environment itself can cause skin issues. This includes temperature extremes, which can lead to heat rash or frostbite, and radiation from sources like welding arcs or X-rays, which pose a significant risk for skin cancer. Vibrations from tools can also affect blood flow and lead to skin changes.
  • Biological Agents: Less common but still a concern, these agents include bacteria, fungi, and viruses that can cause infections like impetigo or ringworm. Plant allergens, like those from poison ivy, are another common example.
  • Mechanical Trauma: Repeated physical stress on the skin, such as friction from tools or clothing, or prolonged pressure, can lead to calluses, blisters, or skin breakdown. Frequent cuts and abrasions can also create pathways for chronic infections.

Seeking Workers’ Compensation for a Skin Disorder

If you believe your long-term skin condition is work-related, workers’ compensation is the system designed to provide you with financial support. Navigating this can be complex, especially with a chronic condition that develops over time. Workers’ compensation typically covers:

  • Medical Expenses: All necessary and reasonable medical treatments, including doctor visits, tests, and prescriptions.
  • Lost Wages: A portion of your average weekly wage if your condition is severe enough to cause you to miss work.
  • Additional Benefits: In cases of permanent disfigurement or impairment, you may be eligible for a lump sum payment or vocational rehabilitation to help you retrain for a new career.

The biggest challenge in these cases is proving causation—demonstrating a direct link between your job and your condition. This requires:

  • Medical Evidence: A formal diagnosis from a qualified medical professional, preferably a dermatologist, who can state with reasonable certainty that your job is the primary cause.
  • Exposure History: Detailed documentation of your work environment and the specific chemicals or physical conditions you were exposed to.
  • Eliminating Other Causes: Your medical report should address and rule out other potential causes, such as hobbies or pre-existing conditions, which the insurance company will likely investigate.

The Value of Legal Counsel

Given the difficulty of proving causation and dealing with insurance companies, seeking legal counsel is highly recommended. A workers’ compensation attorney can be an invaluable partner in this process. They can help you gather the necessary medical and workplace evidence, negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf, and represent you in court if your claim is denied. Their expertise can ensure you receive the full benefits you are entitled to, allowing you to focus on your health and well-being.

Remember: This is just the beginning of your journey. Consulting with multiple attorneys and finding one who resonates with your needs and personality is crucial. To find the right one, we can help with a list of the top 10 workers’ compensation attorneys in Los Angeles.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding a work injury, unsafe working conditions or unfair treatment, be sure to contact us for a free consultation/case review.

To learn more or share your experiences call the Workers’ Compensation Group of Los Angeles at (877) 292-4888, email: info@workercompla.com or schedule a consultation online.

Connect with The Workers’ Compensation Group to follow, like and for more tips and news.

Additional Resources:

Stay Connected:

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult an attorney for legal guidance specific to your situation.