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Workplace Air Contamination and Asthma: How we help

Workplace safety is a vital concern for both employees and employers. The Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993 (OHSA) ensures that employees have the right to work in a safe environment, free from health hazards, including air contamination. If you’ve developed health issues like asthma due to poor air quality at your workplace, A de Bruyn Attorneys is here to help. Here’s how we can assist you in claiming compensation and achieving justice.

Meet Mary, a dedicated worker in a factory that manufactures chemicals. For years, she was exposed to various airborne substances, including dust, fumes, and chemical vapours. Despite repeatedly reporting the poor air quality to her supervisors, no significant measures were taken to improve the ventilation or reduce her exposure to harmful substances.

Over time, Mary began experiencing severe respiratory issues. She was frequently short of breath, had persistent coughing, and found it difficult to perform her duties. After several visits to her doctor, Mary was diagnosed with occupational asthma, a condition directly linked to the air contamination in her workplace. The diagnosis changed Mary’s life as she is the sole breadwinner with two minor children. She will no longer be able to earn an income and will have ongoing medical expenses. 

Our team of compassionate and experienced attorneys can take on cases like Mary’s, recognising that her employer failed to provide a safe working environment and neglected their duty of care.

Steps We Take to Help You

  1. Consultation: The first step is for Mary to schedule a consultation with us. During this meeting, we will listen to her story, assess her situation, and explain her rights and options under the OHSA.
  2. Gathering Evidence: We will collect all necessary documentation, including Mary’s medical records, workplace air quality reports, and testimonies from her colleagues. We will also review the factory’s policies on air quality and employee safety.
  3. Building the Case: We will collect all necessary documentation, including Mary’s medical records, workplace air quality reports, and testimonies from her colleagues. We will assess her case and the impact it has on her life going forward. 
  4. Expert Testimony: Our team will enlist the help of medical experts who can attest to the severity of Mary’s asthma and its direct link to the poor air quality at her workplace.
  5. Filing the Compensation Claim: We will guide Mary through the process of claiming compensation from the relevant occupational health and safety authorities. We will ensure that her claim is thoroughly documented and presented, demonstrating the direct connection between her workplace environment and her health condition. 
  6. Legal Representation: If necessary, we will represent Mary in any legal proceedings, ensuring that her case is presented effectively to achieve the best possible outcome. We will be there every step of the way.

Mary’s story highlights the importance of a safe working environment and the protections afforded by the Occupational Health and Safety Act 85 of 1993. At A de Bruyn Attorneys, we are committed to ensuring that employees like Mary receive the justice and compensation they deserve. Our dedication to upholding the rights of employees and ensuring safe working conditions extends to addressing both physical and environmental health hazards.

If you or someone you know is facing a similar situation, do not hesitate to reach out to A de Bruyn Attorneys. We are here to provide the legal support and guidance you need to navigate such challenging circumstances.

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