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Finding a Solution worth the Time Can Only Come about Through the Act Being Followed

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Ron Coffel
Finding a Solution worth the Time Can Only Come about Through the Act Being Followed

Most employees are aware that if they are injured on the job, they are entitled to workers' compensation. Some people may be unaware that they are also eligible for compensation if they develop an occupational disease or ailment as a result of their continued employment. 


Chemical, dust, fumes, mold, or radiation exposure can cause permanent and often irreversible damage to a person. The process of proving these types of cases can be time-consuming, but it does not have to be difficult with the right person's assistance.


The Illinois Occupational Diseases Act does not specify which diseases and ailments are covered by the act. According to the act, any employee who suffers a disablement, impairment, or disfigurement or dies as a result of a disease caused by their employment is eligible for benefits. 


This means that any type of occupational disease is eligible for consideration under this act. The following are examples of common diseases:


• Dermatitis


• Asthma


• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)


• Reproductive disorders


• Hearing loss


• Hepatitis


• HIV


• Tuberculosis


• Musculoskeletal disorders


Types of Benefits Given


If it is discovered that a person has contracted a disease or ailment as a result of their employment, they are eligible for benefits. These benefits are also available to the employee's dependents and include the following:


• Financial compensation


• Medical benefits


• Surgical benefits


• Hospital and rehabilitative care


• Prosthesis


• Burial costs


• All other benefits, rights, and remedies given in the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act


Time Constraints for Claims


According to the act, for benefits to be paid, a person's disability from work must occur within two years of the last day they were exposed to the elements that caused the disablement. This timeline contains a few exceptions. 


A claim for berylliosis or inhalation of silica or asbestos dust can be filed three years after the employee's employment. If the disease was caused by radiation or radiation equipment, the time limit for filing a claim is extended to 25 years from the last day of exposure.


Seek Representation from a Workers’ Compensation Attorney


Every employee has the right to work in a safe environment. Disease or occupational injuries can be difficult to prevent due to the nature of some jobs, but employers have a responsibility to provide the best protection they can. If you have been injured or developed a disease as a result of your job, you must seek the immediate assistance of a workers' compensation attorney.

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