Beryllium Disease
Beryllium is a metal used in a variety of industries due to its high strength and electrical conductivity yet low weight. However, prolonged or intense contact with this metal, either by breathing beryllium dust or handling beryllium with your bare hands, can leave you with serious health problems. The health complications associated with beryllium exposure are deemed acute and chronic beryllium disease.
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration, or OSHA, has many guidelines establishing the protection and safety of workers, especially those who handle dangerous materials like beryllium. If you have acute or chronic beryllium disease as a result of your job activities, it is important that you understand your legal rights. Contact a New Jersey workers’ comp lawyer from Levinson Axelrod, P.A., today at 800-346-5529 to learn more.
Complications from Beryllium Disease
Short, high-intensity exposure to beryllium can cause acute beryllium disease, while less intense yet longer-lasting exposure may result in chronic beryllium disease, or CBD. The complications associated with each of the forms of beryllium disease include:
- Acute – contact dermatitis, pneumonitis, eye inflammation, nose and throat irritation
- Chronic – granulomas in the lungs as well as the kidneys and other organs, liver enlargement, lung cancer
Occupations at Risk for Beryllium Disease
There are many different occupations that involve the use of beryllium. Thus, people at risk for beryllium disease include:
- Beryllium miners, smelters, and refiners
- Nuclear plant workers
- Electricians
- Welders
- Dental technicians
If you have come into contact with beryllium at work and are now experiencing health problems, you should talk to a lawyer today.
Contact Us
The development of a beryllium-related disorder can lead to high medical bills, lost wages, and other types of financial distress. Fortunately, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits. To discuss your case, contact an experienced New Jersey workers’ compensation attorney from Levinson Axelrod, P.A., at 800-346-5529 today.

