New York employees work in a wide variety of different jobs. In each unique job, a worker can face a different set of challenges. While some of these challenges are merely mental, many workers face physical tasks that put the workers in danger. In some cases, people are exposed to dangerous conditions for a long enough period of time that they develop occupational disease. These diseases can, in some cases, cost workers their lives.
People who work in the energy field are familiar with the many dangers associated with their job. Many are exposed to dangerous conditions that lead to injury and illness. Some may wonder if workers’ compensation benefits are available for energy workers.
According to the United States Department of Labor, some federal energy workers are entitled to special benefits as a result of their job. Under the Division of Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation program, workers and their families can receive some compensation for illnesses caused by a worker’s job. These benefits apply when workers develop cancer from exposure to nuclear energy or other hazardous materials. Depending on the situation, employees may be eligible for between $150,000 and $250,000 in compensation under the program. Their medical expenses may also be paid. The worker, or the worker’s family, can receive the compensation.
While this compensation is available specifically for energy workers, government workers from other sectors may be entitled to workers’ compensation under different programs. Government workers’ have a similar right to compensation following a workplace accident as private employees do. While this blog post cannot provide specific legal advice to government employees, an attorney can be helpful in addressing specific concerns.