Pesticide Exposure Risks: Know Your Rights

Pesticides are widely used in farming, landscaping, and golf course maintenance to control pests, but they can pose significant health risks to workers and nearby residents. If you are at risk of exposure to toxic pesticides or have been harmed by pesticide exposure, you should understand how to protect yourself and your legal rights. Sadly, many workers at risk of pesticide exposure feel trapped with nowhere to turn. At GRYC, we give victims a path forward. Read about our client, Carlitos Candelario, and how he and his family fought against the powerful corporation that caused his life-altering birth defects.

What Are Pesticides?

Pesticides are chemicals used to kill or control pests, including insects, weeds, and fungi. They include insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, and rodenticides. While effective in protecting crops and landscapes, they can be toxic to humans when inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin.

Risks of Pesticide Exposure

Pesticide exposure can cause both immediate and long-term health problems. Those who work in agriculture or landscaping or at greater risk of harm due to their frequent contact with these chemicals, especially when used incorrectly or without proper precautions. We have heard too many stories of workers who have not been trained in the proper use of pesticides or been forced to work without appropriate protective equipment. The risks of short- and long-term health problems are huge.

Short-Term Exposure Risks 

Short-term exposure to pesticides can lead to immediate symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, skin irritation, and breathing difficulties. Eye irritation and chemical burns can also occur with direct contact. These acute symptoms may develop soon after exposure and require prompt medical attention to prevent further complications.

Chronic or Long-Term Health Risks

Chronic health problems caused by exposure to pesticides can include:

• Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s, memory loss, and cognitive decline.
• Cancers such as non-Hodgkin lymphoma, leukemia, and prostate cancer.
• Reproductive issues including infertility, birth defects, and miscarriages.
• Respiratory problems such as asthma and other respiratory diseases.
• Endocrine disruption leading to developmental and reproductive issues.

Pesticides Regulations and Protections

The EPA regulates pesticide safety under the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), and the Worker Protection Standard (WPS) mandates training and safety measures for workers. In Florida, the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) is responsible for state pesticide laws to ensure safe usage and protection for workers. Unfortunately, the laws are not strictly enforced, and many agricultural companies and employers often flout the regulations resulting in serious harm to their workers.

What to Do if You’ve Been Harmed

If you believe you’ve been affected by pesticide exposure:

1. See a Doctor: You need prompt medical attention. Keep a copy of your medical records and bills.
2. Document Your Exposure: Keep records of your work duties, chemicals used, and symptoms.
3. Report the Incident: Notify your employer and consider filing a complaint with OSHA or FDACS.
4. Consult an Attorney: A reputable lawyer can help you get compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

How GRYC Can Help You

We have represented Florida farm workers and their families who have been injured by exposure to pesticides. For decades, our attorneys have been fighting for people like Carlitos Candelario who have been harmed by the negligence of powerful companies. We can help you hold those responsible for your suffering accountable for their actions. We will fight for justice and compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, and ongoing pain and suffering. 

To schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced Florida attorneys, call us today at 1-800-206-4004 or contact us online.