Can I sue for negligence on my employer’s part for not safeguarding me and not making me aware of the risks?

Question

Lead poisoning, how much soldering do you have to do before you get it?

I got a job that includes soldering and recently it was pointed out what a good job I was doing and I've been soldering for 2 days straight. I had a rash and what I thought was a sinus infection but I read that flux fumes symptoms are rashes and respiratory blockage. I had a headache for over a week and it was going away but it's back since yesterday. As soon as I put 2 and 2 together I asked for a mask but I can still smell it once in a while. I use a fan too now. I was never told of the dangers, ever urged to use the fan or offered a mask. Apparently neither has anybody else in the factory.

I asked my supervisor if it had lead. She said yes!!!
so much for it not being around since the 70's.

Answer 1

There are regulations that require a safety & training program and safety equipment in the USA. Contact OSHA... Linked below. International, I'm not sure, but I do believe many countries have governing agencies and regulations.

http://www.osha.gov/dep/oia/whistleblower/index.html

I would imagine if your doctor found damage you might have some sort of case. Check with a lawyer.

Answer 2

You would have to do much more than two days worth
unless you were eating the stuff.

Depending on the type of flux your employer may or may not have to provide adquate ventilation. He should have already
offered to show you the MSDS sheets for anything you would be
exposed to. That does not mean he had to read them to you.
But he does have to show you where they are at so you can
read them.

Also just because you can smell something with a mask on doesn't mean your exposed to something hazardous. Some
fumes are considered "nuisance fumes" Meaning they stink
or make you nauseous but really don't harm your body.

Answer 3

there hasn't been any lead in solder since the early 70s. could be your just allergic to the fumes

Answer 4

Had you ever sodlered before? seems like you would know if you had. But go ahead, obviously you are looking for a reason to sue someone so why are you even asking us. Go find yourself one of those great TV personal injury lawyers, im sure they would be more than happy to help you out.

Answer 5

Sure you can sue..but you will blacklist yourself in future jobs. An employer will think long and hard before hiring you if he sees this on your work record.

If you can live with that..go for it and stay true to defending yourself. Life is not neat and tidy and risk takers like yourself is what causes changes.

Answer 6

If your employer did not provide masks or advisories, then yes, you probably can sue for negligence, of not providing a safe work environment or not giving you the proper protection.

Answer 7

You Bet!! u sure could sue your Employer. The Employer have to give detailed safety precautions and safety equipments to the Employee

Answer 8

get all the facts together with names,dates with any experts you might have been in contact with.see a lawyer perhaps knowledgeable about Workman's comp state unemployment and hazardous materials see if you might have a valid claim and take this dispute on a contingent basis.

Answer 9

Unless there is a serious injury there is nothing you can do. If the fumes bother you that much find a new job.

Answer 10

Maybe you were the only one to experience. It could be possible you are allergic to these things and are more sensitive than others. Why is everyone so lawsuit happy in this country?