Chemical and oil spills can be devastating to people, animals and the surrounding environment. In the aftermath, many people can develop serious health complications, if not fatality, particularly when a sizable amount of a chemical or gas spills and is difficult to clean up. Tragically, statistics show that most chemical and oil spills result from human error.
If you work in or live near an industrial factory, it’s important that you familiarize yourself with the procedure regarding how to safely respond to chemical spills, as well as the symptoms that can arise upon exposure to toxins. If you or a loved one has been harmed by a chemical or oil spill and would like to speak with a personal injury lawyer about your circumstances, contact Gacovino, Lake and Associates today.
After a Chemical/Oil Spill
Whenever a chemical or oil spill occurs, the individual or corporation responsible for the spill will be legally responsible for:
- Containing and cleaning up the spill
- Providing protective gear to those who come into contact with the chemical
- Contacting the Public Safety Authorities (so they can alert the public, if necessary)
- Providing medical attention to those who are harmed as a result of the spill
- Decontaminating any affected water, soil, etc.
Those who regularly work around chemicals should make sure they have the proper protective gear. Additionally, they should be sure that they are familiar with their employer’s safety procedures and emergency evacuation plan so they know what to do if a chemical spill occurs.
Chemical Spill Injuries
Chemical spill injuries can result from contact with any number of chemicals, including (not limited to):
Amonia
Asbestos
Benzene
Chlorine
Gas
Hydrogen sulfate
Lead
Mercury
Nitrogen dioxide
Phosgene
Sulfur dioxide
Injuries that can result from exposure to such chemicals may include:
Burns
Breathing problems
Cancers
Central nervous disorders (CNS)
Eye injuries
Severe skin conditions
Traumatic brain injury
Death
Where Chemical Spills Occur
Chemical spills can occur in both commercial and industrial areas, including at:
Construction sites
Large retail stores
Manufacturing and processing plants
Oil refineries
Schools
Shipyards
Warehouses
Compensation for Chemical Spill Injuries
People who are harmed by chemical spills or toxic gas leaks may qualify to be compensated for their injuries and losses. To find out whether you qualify, contact the experienced, highly-qualified personal injury lawyers at Gacovino, Lake and Associates.
