Skin disorders can be uncomfortable. They can be permanent. They can make it hard to work. If you develop a skin disorder because of your job, could you afford to see a dermatologist or get the treatment and medications that you need? Even if you have health insurance, you could be left paying high deductibles for your treatment and medication. Workers’ Compensation Workers’ compensation is a form of insurance that is required by law for most employers. It doesn’t cost employees anything. It is put into place to act as a safety net for workers who get injured or sick because of their job. Although a skin disorder of some sort may seem mild, they can be very expensive to treat. Depending on how much of your body is covered, you could be in pain that makes it difficult to work. Workers’ compensation may provide you with help with your medical expenses including visits with a skin specialist and medications. If you are unable to work and meet workers’ compensation guidelines you may be able to receive partial payments of lost wages. However, to qualify for any sort of help, you must first file a workers’ compensation claim. Skin Disorder Risks on the Job Depending on your job, you may face a higher risk of developing a skin disorder. For instance, if you are a janitor or if you are a professional cleaner, you may be using harmful cleaners that can hurt your skin. These skin disorders can develop from exposure or even chemical burns. Skin disorders don’t always suddenly develop. Because of this, many people think that they don’t qualify for workers’ compensation. However, that may not be true. Although not all skin disorders are covered by workers’ compensation, there are some that may qualify. Common Types of Skin Disorders There are some common types of skin disorders that may be covered by workers’ compensation: Dermatitis- Dermatitis is an inflammation of the skin. Minor symptoms may include redness and irritation, but more severe symptoms can include blisters. This can be caused by exposure and use of chemicals and even a constant use of water. If you wash your hands a lot as a requirement of your job, use chemicals, or otherwise work with water on a regular basis, you are at risk of developing dermatitis due to your job. Hives- Hives can appear suddenly or over time with exposure to skin irritants. Symptoms including itching, burning, and bumps on the skin. In addition to being caused by skin irritants such as chemicals, you may also find that they’re hard to get rid of because of job stress. Skin Cancer- Skin cancer is another skin disorder that can be developed on the job, and many types of worker can develop it. If you are a landscaper, a construction worker, or work outside on a regular basis, you should watch for signs of skin cancer. Know the signs for all of the different types of skin cancer and get evaluated right away if you believe that you may have developed it. Protect Your Legal Rights If you have developed a skin disorder because of your job, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. Protect your legal rights. Take the time to talk with a workers’ compensation lawyer to learn about your rights and to get help accessing the benefits of workers' compensation.
