Creosote Health Hazards

Creosote is the name used for numerous substances that are produced using high temperature treatment of coal, certain woods, or resin from the creosote bush. Widely used and unregulated for almost two centuries, creosote can be found in thousands of miles of railroad tracks and rail yards across the country. However, recent research has linked creosote to a number of health hazards, including convulsions, liver disease, cancer, and even death.

Under the Federal Employers Liability Act (FELA), rail workers who have suffered injury because of creosote health hazards on the job hold their employers liable for damages. If you are a railroad employee who has suffered adverse health effects that you suspect are creosote exposure, you should know that you have legal rights. Please contact a FELA attorney today for a free consultation.

Creosote Health Hazards: Short- and Long-term Effects

Creosote has been linked to an array of short- and long-term health effects. Short-term effects of creosote exposure include: chemical burns of the mouth, eyes, throat, or stomach, convulsions, confusion, and respiratory tract irritation. Long-term consequences of creosote exposure include:

  • Liver problems
  • Kidney problems
  • Skin cancer
  • Scrotum cancer

The health effects of creosote exposure tend to vary according to duration and amount of exposure. However, even low levels of exposure over extended period of time have been associated with serious, long-term health effects.

Unfortunately, because of the lack of creosote regulation for so many years, those who work in industries where exposure to creosote is common – such as in railroad yards – are especially at risk of developing cancer or experiencing other creosote-related health problems.

Creosote Health Hazards and the Law

FELA was enacted to protect the rights of railroad employees. The law requires railroad companies to provide their employees with safe working conditions. When railroad companies fail in this obligation, they may be held liable for damages suffered as a result.

If you have suffered injury because of workplace creosote health hazards, you need to ensure your legal rights are protected. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical costs, lost earnings and income capacity, pain and suffering, and more. Please contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced FELA lawyer who can evaluate your case and help you determine a course of action.

Learn more about other types of railroad injuries and dangers: