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Maritime Law
- The Dangers of Chemical Exposure in Louisiana Maritime Work
- Overview of Maritime Accident Injury Acts that May Apply to Your Case (Part B)
- Overview of Maritime Accident Injury Acts that May Apply to Your Case (Part A)
- The Legal Rights of Victims of Cruise Ship Injuries
- Damages Available under General Maritime Law (Part B)
Maritime Law
Chemical Exposure: Danger for Gulf Coast Maritime Workers and Residents
Gulf Coast maritime workers are often exposed to toxic chemicals on the job. Such exposures can lead to serious injury and illness. Your employer has a legal obligation to provide you “a safe place to work” under the Jones Act. Yet Louisiana seamen continue to suffer the aftereffects of chemical exposure.A perfect example of this happened following the 2010 BP oil disaster, when many Gulf Coast residents and cleanup workers became ill long after the event itself. In January of 2011, a report came out that detailed the work of Dr. Rodney Soto, a medical doctor from Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. Dr. Soto’s findings are disturbing and emphasize the danger of toxic chemical exposure for humans.
Dr. Soto tested and treated many patients who had high levels of oil-related chemicals in their blood in the aftermath of the BP disaster. In every patient he tested, he found extremely high levels of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). He said, “I’m regularly finding between five and seven VOCs in my patients.” These patients included “people not directly involved in the oil cleanup, as well as residents that do not live right on the coast.”
One woman, who was young and good health, visited the beach and within weeks developed respiratory problems and cancer. Another of Dr. Soto’s patients, a BP cleanup team foreman, was found to have chemicals from both the oil and the cleanup operation in his bloodstream.
In fact, the 1.9 million gallons of toxic dispersants used after the spill are banned in at least 19 countries because of their dangers to human health.
Dr. Soto says he is very concerned about the long-term effects of this chemical exposure because symptoms can develop over years. “I am concerned with the illnesses like cancer and brain degeneration in the future,” Soto said, adding his concern that the chemicals can create “tremendous implications in the human immune system, hormonal function, and brain function.”
If you or a loved one suspects toxic chemical exposure, either as a Gulf of Mexico maritime worker or a resident of the area, you should have your blood tested for VOCs. A positive diagnosis may entitle you to compensation from the company responsible for your illness.
The New Orleans maritime law attorneys at The Young Firm urge you to contact us if you have become ill because of Gulf Coast chemical exposure. We know the law and can fight to protect your rights. Call toll free today at 866-938-6113 to schedule a free consultation.
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