Not in Victoria? Change location

Occupational Disease in the Plastic and Rubber Industry

As society continues to move towards more sustainable methods of production and use, the manufacturing and production of plastics, polymers, and rubber becomes of the utmost importance and value. However, current and former workers in the plastics and rubber industry are often exposed to hazardous dust and fumes during the production process.

Many of these fumes have been determined as carcinogenic and, therefore, increase the chance of a worker developing cancer. Those working in such industries are at further risk of becoming susceptible to autoimmune diseases, blood conditions, and respiratory conditions.

We’re here to help

Tell us a little bit about your situation, and our friendly team will be in touch.

Who can make a claim?

There are a number of sectors in the economy that involve the daily management and processing of plastic and rubber. Anyone who is consistently surrounded by the manufacturing of these materials will be at risk of exposure.  Those who are continuously involved in plastic production are at an increased risk of developing:

  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Occupational Asthma
  • Dermatitis or Skin Irritation
  • Toxic metal poisoning
  • Lung Cancer and Other Respiratory Problems
  • Leukaemia
  • Lymphoma
  • Brain cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Mesothelioma

In relation to work with rubber, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has identified β-naphthylamine, a carcinogenic compound once common in rubber production, as a key risk to workers. It is less prevalent today, and removing it from production substantially reduces cancer risk.

What to do if you think lethal fumes resulting from work with plastic or rubber have affected you

If you have been working in an environment that is or has been subject to plastic and rubber production or processing, it is recommended to see a GP or specialist at your earliest convenience to verify any conditions consistent with the nature of employment.

Threats from several occupational diseases affect a number of workers daily, so we understand any difficulties or confusion you may have if you think your exposure to such problems has affected you. We have seen how traumatic an injury of this nature can be. That is why we operate on a 100% No Win, No Fee basis. In the unlikely event that we do not secure compensation for you, we will not charge you for any of our professional fees.”


What you can claim

Weekly payments

If you are in a position where you cannot return to your pre-injury duties or an alternate form of employment from plastic and rubber exposure – you can earn weekly payments for any loss of wages incurred.

Medical and Treatment expenses

This can include costs that you may have incurred for GP and hospital appointments, medication expenses, travel costs, and any psychiatric or psychological expenses.

Lump Sum Compensation

You may be entitled to one-off, lump-sum payments in compensation for your pain and suffering if your situation with the injury qualifies you to be eligible to do so.

Superannuation Entitlements

If the exposure to high levels of rubber or plastic was by reason of your place of work, it may be possible to seek further benefits through your superannuation.

Free no-obligation initial appointments

We get to know your story and understand your circumstances.

Home or hospital
appointments

If you can’t come to us, we can come to you.

Case
management

We advocate for your rights and manage discussions with the insurance companies.

Keep you
updated

Our team will regularly update you about the progress of your claim.

No Win,
No Fee

In the unlikely event that we don’t secure compensation for you, we will not charge you for any of our professional fees.

Read more client reviews

View more blogs

      We’re here
      to help