Construction Site Accidents – Hazardous Waste

Hazardous waste is unfortunately a by-product of many construction sites and, if not disposed of or handled properly, poses a serious health risk, not only to the workers on site, but also to citizens living nearby. Hazardous waste can come in various forms such as: toxic fumes, chemicals, radioactive substances, asbestos, insecticide, waste oil, batteries and more. Hazardous waste run-offs have been known to pollute water wells and tables, thus affecting communities nearby as well as the workers on site.

Proper storage and disposal of hazardous waste can be expensive and this is where employers may try to cut corners, which in the long-term leads to disastrous consequences. Workers need to be aware of what potentially toxic substances they are dealing with and what procedures are in place in the event of an accident. What makes hazardous and toxic waste so dangerous is that illnesses my not be initially apparent. In many cases, it is the prolonged and constant exposure to these substances that can lead to serious health problems.

In many cases, personal injury or death due to exposure to hazardous or toxic waste is difficult to prove. Exposure to these materials may have been years ago, before symptoms manifested themselves and it is difficult for the plaintiff to prove causation. In many cases, large numbers of people are victims of hazardous or toxic waste and it may make sense to join a toxic tort action, where many plaintiffs get together to sue an employer or manufacturer.