Sicknesses, conditions, or injuries arising from contact with chemicals or dust, or stemming from physical, psychological, or biological elements encountered in a work environment. Severe occupational ailments are less frequent nowadays compared to the past, yet remain a significant category of health issues. They encompass the subsequent primary classifications.
The expression “pneumoconiosis” is employed to describe lung fibrosis, a process involving the formation of scar tissue, caused by inhaling industrial dusts like coal. “Asbestosis” is a lung disorder connected to asbestos exposure in various industries. “Allergic alveolitis,” characterized by inflammation of the small air sacs in the lungs, is brought about by inhaling organic dusts, which frequently include fungal spores.
Inhaled industrial chemicals have the potential to harm the lungs, while some can enter the bloodstream through the lungs or skin and damage other vital organs. Chemicals like cadmium, beryllium, lead, and benzene, when inhaled, can prove detrimental. Liver disease can result from exposure to carbon tetrachloride and vinyl chloride. Additionally, several of these compounds have the capacity to induce kidney damage.
Occupational skin conditions encompass contact dermatitis, a condition involving skin inflammation, triggered by either an allergic reaction or direct irritation caused by contact with chemicals. Another concern is squamous cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer that can arise from exposure to tar.
Uncommon contagious illnesses that have a higher prevalence in specific occupations encompass brucellosis and Q fever (contracted from livestock), psittacosis (transmitted by birds), and leptospirosis (resulting from exposure to a bacterium present in rat urine). Individuals involved in tasks involving blood or blood products face an elevated risk of contracting viral hepatitis (refer to viral hepatitis) and AIDS, similar to healthcare professionals.
Both the nuclear sector and specific healthcare roles implement strategies to mitigate the risks associated with radiation hazards. Being exposed to particular forms of radiation elevates the likelihood of developing cancer.
Additional work-related conditions encompass conditions like writer’s cramp, carpal tunnel syndrome, and singer’s nodes. Raynaud’s phenomenon is linked to the use of vibrating tools. Deafness can result from prolonged exposure to high levels of noise.