This article will discuss what radiation is, how it can be harmful to workers, and what you can do to protect yourself from exposure.
What comes to mind when you hear “radiation exposure”? Like most people, you may think of radiation exposure as something that only happens in nuclear plants. However, the truth is that radiation can be found in any workplace where harmful materials are present.
This article will discuss what radiation is, how it can be harmful to workers, and what you can do to protect yourself from exposure.
What Is Radiation?
Simply put, radiation is energy that travels through the air and is emitted by sources like the sun, X-rays, and radioactive materials. While radiation is all around us, there are some sources of radiation that workers may be exposed to on the job. These include:
- X-rays
- CT scans
- Radiation therapy machines
- Nuclear power plants
- Radioactive materials
Unfortunately, exposure to high levels of radiation can cause a number of health problems, including:
- Cancer
- Fertility issues
- DNA damage
- Organ damage
While you can’t completely eliminate your risk of radiation exposure, there are some steps you can take to minimize your risk. These include:
- Wearing protective clothing. This includes items like lead aprons, gloves, and glasses.
- Limiting your time in areas with high levels of radiation. Be sure to follow all safety regulations and limit your time in areas known to have high radiation levels.
- Avoiding unnecessary exposure. If you don’t need to be in an area with high radiation levels, don’t go there.
- Educate yourself about the risks of radiation exposure. The more you know about the risks, the better you can protect yourself.
Signs You Are Being Exposed to Harmful Levels of Radiation
There are a few signs that indicate you are being exposed to harmful radiation levels. These include:
- Feeling nauseous
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Skin redness or burns
- Hair loss
If you suspect you’ve been exposed to high radiation levels, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Be sure to let your doctor know about your potential exposure so they can properly diagnose and treat any health problems that may arise.
St. Louis Workers Compensation Attorney
With the devastating health effects of radiation exposure, not to mention the high cost of treatment, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. An experienced Missouri workers compensation attorney can help you navigate the claims process and ensure that you get the compensation you need and deserve.
If you or someone you love has been exposed to workplace radiation, we’re here to help. At the Law Office of James M. Hoffman, we have years of experience handling workers’ compensation claims. We know the ins and outs of the system, and we can fight to get you the benefits you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.