Imagine this scenario: you show up to your job, day in and day out, for years. But lately, something feels off. Maybe your joints ache long after the shift ends. Maybe you’re coughing more than usual. Or maybe your skin’s reacting to something at work, and no one can figure out why.
It’s unlikely that these symptoms are random. They’re probably signs of an occupational disease, something caused by the work you do or the environment you work in.
Unlike a slip and fall accident or other workplace injuries, occupational diseases don’t usually happen suddenly. They build up over time. And because they come on slowly, they’re often ignored until the damage is done.
You also don’t have to work in a hazardous environment like a factory or around chemicals to be at risk. Occupational diseases affect workers across all industries, from warehouse workers to nurses to office staff.
Every year, almost 2 million people around the world die from work-related diseases.
In this post, we’ll break down five of the most common occupational diseases, their symptoms, how to protect yourself, and what to do if you develop one.
What are occupational diseases?
An occupational disease is any medical condition that’s caused, or made worse, by your work. They’re often the result of repeated exposure to harmful substances, poor ergonomics, constant physical strain, or even long-term stress.
Examples include:
- Chronic back pain from heavy lifting
- Asthma triggered by dust or chemicals
- Hearing loss from loud equipment
In Oregon and many other states, workers’ compensation doesn’t just cover accidents. If your job contributes to a serious health condition, even years later, you have the right to file a claim and seek benefits.
Related: Who Pays Medical Bills After an Oregon Workplace Injury
What are the most common occupational diseases?
Occupational diseases do not always look the same, nor do they always show up in the same way. Some affect your breathing. Others wear down your joints or damage your hearing. But what they all have in common is this: they can sneak up on you if you’re not paying attention.
Below are some of the most common occupational diseases across industries.
1. Hearing Loss from Workplace Noise
Prolonged exposure to loud noise is the leading cause of work-related hearing loss. In many jobs, that means being around sound levels above 85 decibels for most of your shift. The CDC estimates that each year about 22 million U.S. workers face hazardous noise on the job. Noise-induced hearing loss is preventable, so if you’re exposed, your employer should provide proper hearing protection.
Symptoms:
- Gradual trouble following conversations
- Needing higher volume on devices
- Persistent ringing in the ears (tinnitus)
High-Risk Jobs:
- Workers in manufacturing, mining, construction, and transportation
- Airport ground crews
- Farmworkers
- Any job with regular loud equipment
2. Respiratory Illnesses from Dust, Fumes, and Chemicals
If you breathe in harmful substances at work, like silica, chemicals, mold, dust, fumes, chemicals, and smoke, your lungs can take a hit. Asthma and COPD (chronic bronchitis and emphysema) are the two most common work-related respiratory diseases. Some exposures cause permanent lung damage after years on the job.
In 2023, U.S. workplaces reported respiratory illnesses at a rate of 9.5 cases per 10,000 full-time workers, and many of these cases are preventable with proper controls and personal protective equipment.
Symptoms:
- Asthma: Wheezing, coughing, chest tightness, shortness of breath (often worse at work, better on days off)
- COPD: Constant cough, mucus buildup, breathlessness during activity; permanent lung damage over time
High-Risk Jobs:
- Asthma: Spray painters, janitors, bakers, healthcare workers, hair stylists, farmers
- COPD & chronic dust diseases: Miners, construction workers, welders, firefighters, textile and cotton workers
3. Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) from Repetitive Strain
MSDs are injuries to your muscles, nerves, tendons, ligaments, or joints that are caused, or aggravated, by the work you do. They often result from repetitive motions, heavy lifting, awkward postures, vibration, or forceful exertion. Over time, these stresses can lead to chronic back pain, tendonitis, and/or carpal tunnel syndrome.
Symptoms:
- Pain, stiffness, or swelling
- Tingling or numbness in the hands
- Shoulder weakness or back spasms
High-Risk Jobs:
- Healthcare workers
- Construction workers
- Warehouse staff
- Truck drivers
- Assembly line workers
- Cashiers
- Office workers with poor ergonomics
Related: Preventing Common Ergonomic Injuries In The Workplace
4. Skin Conditions from Hazardous Contact
Skin diseases often come from repeated contact with solvents, cleaning agents, cement, oils, or adhesives. Extreme temperatures, UV exposure, and certain plants or animals can also trigger issues. The most common workplace skin condition is contact dermatitis, which is inflammation caused by irritants or allergens.
Symptoms:
- Red, itchy, dry, or scaly skin
- Blisters or pain in severe cases
- Allergic flare-ups even with small exposures
High-Risk Jobs:
- Healthcare workers
- Janitors
- Construction workers
- Cosmetologists
- Food service staff
- Mechanics
- Agricultural workers
- Any workers with frequent chemical contact or who perform wet work
5. Occupational Cancer from Long-Term Exposure
Occupational cancers develop after long-term exposure to carcinogens on the job, often decades after the initial exposure. Common culprits include asbestos, diesel exhaust, silica dust, benzene, formaldehyde, vinyl chloride, certain industrial chemicals, and heavy metals. While less common than other workplace illnesses, occupational cancers are far more deadly.
It’s estimated that between 2 to 8% of all cancers worldwide are linked to occupational carcinogen exposure.
Symptoms:
- Lung: Persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath
- Bladder: Blood in urine
- Leukemia: Fatigue, infections, bleeding
- Often vague early signs (screenings are vital for high-risk workers)
High-Risk Jobs:
- Workers in construction, mining, manufacturing, chemical production, oil and gas refining, and printing
- Welders
- Firefighters, transportation
- Certain healthcare roles with radiation exposure
6 Steps You Can Take to Protect Yourself
1. Know the Hazards in Your Workplace
Every job has risks. Learn what substances, equipment, or conditions could harm you. If you’re not sure, ask your supervisor for the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) or training records that outline known hazards.
2. Use the Safety Equipment Provided
Personal protective equipment, like gloves, respirators, hearing protection, or safety glasses, only works if you wear it correctly and consistently. If the gear you’re given is damaged, missing, or doesn’t fit, speak up right away.
3. Ask for Safer Practices
Employers are legally required to provide a safe work environment. That can mean improving ventilation, reducing noise, rotating tasks, or switching to less hazardous materials. Your voice matters, especially if others are at risk too.
4. Keep Detailed Records
Document your symptoms, doctor visits, test results, and any workplace conditions that may be linked to your illness. Photos, medical reports, and written notes can strengthen a workers’ compensation claim.
5. Report Symptoms Early
If you notice new or worsening symptoms, whether it’s a cough, skin rash, hearing changes, or joint pain, tell your employer and see a doctor as soon as possible. In Oregon, you have 90 days to report an occupational disease, but sooner is always better for your health and your claim.
6. Get Legal Help If You’re Denied
Occupational disease claims are often denied because they’re harder to prove than sudden injuries. A workers’ compensation attorney can help gather evidence, secure expert testimony, and fight for your benefits. We don’t get paid unless you win.
Occupational Disease FAQs
What is an occupational disease?
A health condition caused or worsened by your job. It usually develops over time, like lung problems from dust, carpal tunnel from repetitive work, or skin rashes from chemicals.
How can I tell if my illness is work-related or just a coincidental health problem?
Watch if symptoms get worse at work and improve when you’re off. Check for known hazards in your job and talk to a doctor about your duties and exposures.
What should I do if I suspect I have an occupational disease or have been injured due to work?
Report it to your employer right away, see a doctor, and file a workers’ comp claim. Keep notes on symptoms and workplace conditions.
Do I have a right to see a doctor of my choice under workers’ comp, and who pays the bills?
In many states, yes. Workers’ comp should cover the bills. Tell your provider it’s work-related so they bill the insurer directly.
My employer is downplaying my symptoms and hasn’t filed an incident report. What are my rights?
You can file a claim yourself. Employers must document work injuries and can’t legally stop you. Retaliation is against the law. Make sure to avoid common mistakes when filing your workers’ comp claim.
Can I get workers’ compensation benefits for occupational diseases like COPD or carpal tunnel syndrome?
If your job was a major cause, yes. You’ll need medical proof linking your condition to work.
What benefits does workers’ comp provide for occupational diseases?
Paid medical care, partial wage replacement, possible permanent disability benefits, job retraining, and death benefits for families.
Can my employer fire me or punish me for getting an occupational disease or filing a claim?
No. That’s illegal. Document any retaliation and talk to a lawyer.
What does OSHA do if I report unsafe conditions related to occupational diseases?
They can inspect, cite violations, and require fixes. They don’t pay benefits, but they can make your workplace safer.
Should I consult a lawyer?
If your claim is denied, complicated, or serious, yes. A lawyer can protect your rights and improve your chances of success.
Protect Your Health and Your Rights
Occupational diseases can be just as life-changing as sudden injuries. Symptoms may start small, but they can threaten your health, income, and ability to work.
You have the right to a safe workplace and medical care if your job makes you sick. Act quickly by reporting symptoms and seeing a doctor. Throughout the process, make sure to document everything. If your claim is denied or your employer pushes back, get legal help. We’re here to protect your rights so you can focus on recovery.
If you require legal assistance regarding your workers’ compensation claim in Oregon, contact Ransom, Gilbertson, Martin & Ratliff today for a free consultation. You don’t pay unless we win!
Mike grew up in a military family and attended Northwestern School of Law in Oregon, where he graduated with honors. He began practicing workers’ compensation law in 1991 and became a founding partner of Ransom & Gilbertson in 1995. With decades of experience, Mike is known as a top 1% workers’ compensation attorney and has earned Martindale-Hubbell’s highest AV rating for skill and ethics. Outside the office, he enjoys rafting, fishing, going to the beach, and spending time with his dog, Sahalie.