Working in high-risk occupations brings even more chance of work injuries and illnesses. In some fields, it is almost unavoidable. Police and firefighters constantly put themselves in harm’s way to keep others safe. Sadly, in some states workers’ compensation programs may not fully cover these men and women.
Several groups, including the Youngstown Professional Fire Fighters I.A.F.F. Local 312, are pushing for the state of Ohio to pass Senate Bill 27.
Senate Bill 27 would allow all Ohio firefighters to be covered under workers’ compensation insurance “if or when” they become disabled by cancer due to their job conditions in hazardous atmosphere.
According to a study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, 68% of firefighters get cancer contrary to 22% of the general public.
The numbers relating to specific cancer found in firemen are as follows:
- Multiple Myeloma Cancer: 53% greater risk to firemen
- Testicular Cancer: 102% greater risk to firemen
- Brain Cancer: 39% greater risk to firemen
- Skin Cancer: 32% greater risk to firemen
- Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma: 51% greater risk to firemen
Overall, the men and women in this career have a much higher risk contracting cancer but the state of Ohio does not currently provide workers’ compensation benefits to those affected by these illnesses.
36 other states already have workers’ compensation cancer laws in place. Ohio is 1 of 16 states that had failed to recognize the link between this occupation and cancer risks.
The firemen and families affected by their illnesses have been fighting to pass the bill for months now. As of last week, both the Ohio House and Senate have passed Bill 27 but it will not become effective until Governor John Kasich signs it within the next two weeks.
If you suffer a workplace injury or illness and want to know your rights to collect workers’ compensation, call me today for a free consultation.
As your Ohio workplace accident attorney, I’ll be there for you, and I’ll Make Them Pay!®
Author: Tim Misny | For over four decades, personal injury lawyer Tim Misny has represented the injured victim in in birth injury, medical malpractice, and catastrophic injury/wrongful death cases, serving “Cleveland, Akron/Canton, Columbus, Dayton and neighboring communities.” You can reach Tim by email at misnylaw.com/ask-tim-a-question/ or call at 877.944.4373