Industrial Disease

Unlike sudden workplace injuries, industrial diseases develop over time due to long-term exposure to hazardous materials, chemicals, or work conditions. Although Maryland law dictates that employees who sustain work-related harm can recover workers’ compensation benefits, proving an industrial disease arose from employment conditions can be an arduous task, and employers will often deny valid claims. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an industrial disease caused by workplace exposures, you may be entitled to benefits, and it is advisable to speak to an attorney as soon as possible. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our seasoned Prince George’s County workers’ compensation attorneys understand that industrial diseases can have a lasting and devastating impact on employees, and if you hire us, we will diligently pursue any benefits you may be owed.

Industrial diseases are illnesses or chronic conditions that arise due to prolonged exposure to harmful substances or environments in the workplace. Common examples of industrial diseases include asbestosis, mesothelioma, silicosis, occupational asthma, hearing loss, and repetitive stress disorders. These conditions often stem from exposure to toxic chemicals, loud noise, dust, or physical strain, which are prevalent in industries like construction, manufacturing, mining, and factory work.

The harm caused by industrial diseases can be severe and life-altering. Workers suffering from conditions like respiratory diseases may experience persistent coughing, shortness of breath, and reduced lung function, which can impact their quality of life and ability to work. Similarly, hearing loss caused by prolonged exposure to high-decibel noise can lead to permanent impairment. Industrial diseases like mesothelioma and asbestosis, which are caused by asbestos exposure, can be fatal if not detected early. In many cases, the effects of industrial diseases do not become apparent until years after exposure, making early diagnosis and treatment essential.

Under Maryland’s Workers’ Compensation Act, employees suffering from industrial diseases are entitled to benefits that address both their medical needs and lost wages. Medical benefits cover necessary treatments, including physician visits, diagnostic tests, prescription medications, rehabilitation, and surgeries. In cases involving long-term conditions, such as asbestosis or silicosis, these benefits can include ongoing care, oxygen therapy, or other specialized treatments required to manage the disease.

Wage replacement benefits are calculated based on the worker’s average weekly wage prior to the illness. If the industrial disease prevents the worker from performing any job duties while they undergo treatment, they may qualify for temporary total disability benefits. These benefits are two-thirds of the employee’s average weekly wage, subject to a statutory cap. For workers able to return to light-duty work or reduced hours, temporary partial disability benefits compensate for two-thirds of the difference between pre-illness wages and current reduced earnings.

If the illness results in permanent impairment, workers may be entitled to permanent partial disability benefits. The level of compensation is based on the severity of the impairment, as determined through medical evaluations, and the affected body system. For example, impairment to lung function or hearing loss may entitle the worker to a certain number of weeks of compensation under Maryland’s statutory schedule. In cases where the industrial disease leads to permanent total disability, workers receive lifetime benefits equal to two-thirds of their average weekly wage, ensuring long-term financial support.

If the industrial disease results in death, the worker’s dependents may receive death benefits. These benefits include wage compensation for the family and coverage for funeral expenses, easing the financial burden caused by the loss.

Industrial diseases can profoundly impact your health, livelihood, and future, often requiring costly and prolonged medical treatment. If you were diagnosed with an industrial disease caused by workplace exposures or conditions, it is crucial to speak to an attorney about what action you can take to protect your legal rights. At Foran & Foran, P.A., our trusted Prince George’s County workers’ compensation attorneys take pride in helping people whose lives were shattered by workplace harm seek the justice they deserve, and if we represent you, we will help you seek any available benefits. We have an office in Greenbelt, Maryland, and we frequently represent people in workers’ compensation claims in Hyattsville, Bowie, Upper Marlboro, La Plata, Waldorf, Silver Spring, Rockville, and other cities in Prince George’s County, Montgomery County, Charles County, and all counties in the State of Maryland. To schedule a free and confidential consultation, please contact us online or call (301) 441-2022.