Lead poisoning happens due to the exposure and absorption of lead in the body. Lead poisoning is commonly caused by high levels of lead exposure in jobs that manufacture or use lead-based products such as mining, plumbing, construction, plastic manufacturing and painting. Depending upon the level of exposure, the illness symptoms can vary from high blood pressure to brain and nervous system damage.

To learn more or to start your claim, get in touch with our expert team on 0800 808 9740 or contact us online. 

Symptoms of Lead Poisoning

There are many different symptoms associated with lead poisoning like memory loss, headaches, tiredness, stomach cramps and kidney problems. If these symptoms are being displayed as well as a high level of lead in the bloodstream, then it is likely that a personal injury claim against an employer may be possible. Despite the Control of Lead at Work Regulations, lead poisoning is still a health issue for a number of UK workers who have been exposed to dangerous levels of lead.

Lead poising can occasionally cause miscarriage, stillbirths and premature births in women. This type of poising can also cause foetal development complications. 

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Lead Poisoning in the Workplace

Exposure to lead in the workplace is the most common cause of lead poisoning/lead related illnesses. 

 The Control of Lead at Work Regulations 2002 (CLAW) place a duty of care on employers to prevent exposure to lead for their employees. This includes reviewing work processes and ensuring that records about exposure or risk are kept in good order.

 It is essential that your employer takes any and all necessary steps to ensure your health and safety, such as providing respiratory equipment and personal protective equipment like masks. Employers should also provide employees with information about how to avoid lead exposure, as well as the potential risks. Adequate training should also be given to all employees. 

If your employer has failed to abide by any health and safety regulations pertaining to lead in the workplace, you may be able to claim compensation as a result. 

Lead poisoning is commonly diagnosed to employees within the following industries: 

• Manufacturing
• Mining
• Plumbing
• Mechanics 
• Construction

Working with lead without the right protections can potentially be damaging to your health. Exposure can cause a variety of problems, ranging from minor to very serious.  Some problems include headaches, tiredness, kidney damage and infertility. 

Unacceptable levels of lead in the blood are different depending upon your age but if you suspect lead poisoning you should visit your doctor. If dangerously high levels of lead are detected in an employee’s bloodstream, their employer should reinforce the correct hygiene measures and review their preventative measures. If the blood-lead level reaches suspension levels, they must cease all work until a doctor considers it safe to return to work. 

Amount of Compensation

Compensation amounts are decided upon by taking into account the amount of pain and suffering that an injury or illness has caused. Compensation also takes into account how this condition has impacted upon your ability to function/your amenity. For example, if you can no longer complete certain tasks as you would prior to being injured or developing a certain condition, then compensation could account for this. Similarly, compensation also takes financial losses into account.

If you have lost income or have had to pay for treatment, it may be possible to reclaim costs like these back through compensation. Therefore, you should retain any receipts relating to costs associated with your injury or illness. 

Making Personal Injury Claims

If you have been exposed to lead in the workplace, you may be entitled to compensation. First Personal Injury solicitors are available to assist you and ensure that you get the compensation you deserve. 

First Personal Injury works with both families and individuals across England and Wales, leading them on their legal journey and helping them claim compensation after an accident or injury. 

To learn more or to start your claim, get in touch with our expert team on 0800 808 9740 or contact us online. 

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