What is an occupational disease?

An occupational disease is an illness caused by exposure to certain toxic substances or hazardous conditions in the workplace. This can include illnesses caused by exposure to lead, asbestos, silica, and other dangerous materials. It can also include certain conditions caused by exposure to repetitive strain, like carpal tunnel syndrome. In the state of Florida, the Workers’ Compensation Law outlines the conditions under which an occupational disease is covered. In general, in order to qualify as an occupational disease, the disease must have arisen out of and in the course of employment, have been caused by an occupational exposure, and have been contracted because of a hazard inherent in the employment. If an employee is diagnosed with an occupational disease, then they are typically entitled to certain benefits, including workers’ compensation benefits, medical benefits, wage replacement benefits, and death benefits. However, the employee must report the illness to their boss or employer within 30 days of diagnosis or they may not be eligible for the benefits. In the state of Florida, an employee must also prove that the occupational disease was caused by their specific job. This means that the employee must provide evidence that the disease was caused by an exposure in the workplace, rather than by any other source outside their job.

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