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Occupational Disease in the Plastic and Rubber Industry

Occupational Disease in the Plastic and Rubber Industry

As society continues to move towards more sustainable manners of production and usage, the manufacturing and production of plastic, polymers and rubber becomes something of the utmost importance and value. However, current, and previous workers in the plastic and rubber industry are often exposed to several hazardous dusts and fumes during the production process.

Many of these fumes have been determined as carcinogenic, and therefore increase the chance of a worker developing cancer. Those working in such industries are at a further threat of becoming susceptible to autoimmune diseases, blood conditions, and respiratory conditions.

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Who can make a claim?

There are a number of sectors in the economy that involve the management and processing of plastic and rubber daily. Anyone who is consistently surrounded by the manufacturing of these materials will be at risk of exposure.  Those who are continuously involved in plastic production are at an increased chance of developing:

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Occupational Asthma
  • Dermatitis or Skin Irritation
  • Toxic metal poisoning
  • Lung Cancer and Other Respiratory Problems
  • Leukaemia
  • Lymphoma
  • Brain cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Mesothelioma

In relation to work with rubbers, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) declared that the prominent issue portraying such a risk to workers is the presence of β-naphthylamine – a compound known for its carcinogenic properties, and despite being less prevalent today, the removal of this agent leads to substantial decrease chances of cancer.

What to do if you think lethal fumes resulting from work with plastic or rubber have affected you

If you have been working in an environment that is or has been subject to plastic and rubber production or processing – it is recommended to see a GP or specialist at your earliest convenience to verify any conditions consistent with the nature of employment.

Threats from several occupational diseases affect a number of workers daily, so we understand any difficulties or confusion you may have if you think your exposure to such problems has affected you. We’ve seen how traumatic and challenging an injury of this nature can be, that is why we operate on a no-win, no-fee basis, this means that in the unlikely event that we don’t succeed in securing compensation for you, we will not charge you for any of our professional fees.


Compensatory options

Weekly payments

If you are in a position where you cannot return to your pre-injury duties or an alternate form of employment from plastic and rubber exposure – you can earn weekly payments for any loss of wages incurred.

Medical and Treatment expenses

This can include costs that you may have incurred for GP and hospital appointments, medication expenses, travel costs, and any psychiatric or psychological expenses.

Lump Sum Compensation

You may be entitled to one-off, lump-sum payments in compensation for your pain and suffering if your situation with the injury qualifies you to be eligible to do so.

Superannuation Entitlements

If the exposure to high levels of rubber or plastic was by reason of your place of work, it may be possible to seek further benefits through your superannuation.

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No Win,
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In the unlikely event that we don’t secure compensation for you, we will not charge you for any of our professional fees.

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