“Chemical exposure – even for a short time – can have devastating effects”

As we’ve discussed in previous posts, chemical exposure in the workplace can lead to life-altering conditions – and might even prove fatal. If your workplace failed to provide the necessary safety equipment or training regarding hazardous materials, you could face a wide range of devastating injuries.

Methyl Bromide – What Is It?

One such dangerous chemical is methyl bromide. Methyl bromide is a broad spectrum pesticide historically used in fumigation in the United States. It was largely used to control the spread of pest insects and rodents. In the early 2000s, the chemical was phased out of use reaching a 100% phase out in 2005. Although completely phased out, exemptions allow the chemical to be used at certain sites including New Jersey, Delaware and Pennsylvania ports.

A Local Tale Of The Dangers Of Methyl Bromide

A local man was exposed to methyl bromide for 45 minutes a decade ago. As shown in this video from CBS Philly, he is still experiencing mental and physical deterioration as well as chronic pain. Soon after the exposure, he began feeling a burning sensation in his chest that soon spread to his extremities. Now, 10 years later, he must walk with a cane, feels chronic pain in his back and is suffering deterioration in his cognitive processing.

Soon after the exposure, the man filed a workers’ compensation claim. He stated that the chemical had leaked from the protected environment and he unknowingly breathed the fumigant for nearly an hour. While protective gear was provided by the company, he maintains that the workers were pressured to go without during the fumigation procedure.

Seek Medical Attention ASAP

Even though the symptoms of exposure can come on slowly – as in the above example – it is crucial that you seek medical attention and legal guidance as soon as possible. Nearly every worker in the nation runs the risk of some sort of toxic exposure. The type of occupation, certainly, can increase or decrease the worker’s chance of harmful exposure. If safety measures are not in place, even a momentary exposure can lead to a lifetime of pain.