Claim for Hydrocarbon Exposure at Work

Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer

About Our Legal Expert: This content is produced with oversight by Michael Jefferies, Managing Director who has over 30 years’ legal experience.

Working in industries such as oil and gas or chemical manufacturing comes with hazards with one of the most serious being hydrocarbon exposure at work. Hydrocarbons are chemicals that largely occur in fuels such as petrol, diesel, and natural gas, and in industrial solvents and lubricants. Accidental exposure to hydrocarbons can result in severe health conditions. In fact, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has recently highlighted the risk of major accidents and injuries caused by hydrocarbon releases if isolation failures occur in offshore operations.

If you have suffered an injury at work due to hydrocarbon exposure, you may be eligible to claim compensation by filing a personal injury claim. Compensation typically covers pain and suffering as well as financial losses such as lost wages.

If you want to find out today if you have a claim, simply contact us for your  initial, no-obligation consultation which is free. 

Hydrocarbon Exposure at Work

Exposure may occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact. However, the effects of such exposure can vary depending on the chemical type, duration, and concentration. Common short-term effects include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and skin irritation. However, long term exposure has been associated with respiratory issues, organ damage, neurological disorders, and even certain types of cancer, such as bladder or skin cancer.

Many industries commonly use hydrocarbons, including:

• Oil and Gas Extraction: Workers may come into contact with crude oil, natural gas, and petroleum products.
• Manufacturing and Chemical Plants: Solvents, lubricants, and other hydrocarbon-based products are frequently used in production processes.
• Construction and Engineering: Fuels, oils, and asphalt may contain hydrocarbons that workers are exposed to daily.

Hydrocarbon Exposure: A Common Workplace Hazard

The law requires employers to protect the health and safety of their workers. Therefore, when it comes to hydrocarbon exposure, employers must:

• Assess and manage the risks of hydrocarbon exposure.
• Provide appropriate protective equipment, such as gloves and masks.
• Ensure proper ventilation and safety procedures are in place.
• Conduct regular health monitoring for employees at risk.

Unfortunately, not all employers comply with these regulations, which can lead to workers suffering preventable injuries and illnesses. In such cases, workers may be entitled to make a compensation claim for the harm caused.

What Are Hydrocarbon Exposure Compensation Claims?

Hydrocarbon exposure compensation claims are designed to compensate employees who suffer work-related injuries or illnesses which can be directly linked to employer negligence.

You can typically claim the following types of damages:

1. General Damages
Compensation for physical pain, suffering, and psychological distress caused by hydrocarbon exposure. For instance, chronic skin conditions or respiratory problems that affect your quality of life fall into this category.

2. Special Damages
Covers financial losses resulting from your injury, including:

• Loss of earnings or reduced earning capacity
• Medical expenses and rehabilitation costs
• Travel expenses for treatment

3. Future Care Costs
In cases where hydrocarbon exposure causes long-term illness or disability, claims can include the cost of ongoing care, home adaptations, and specialised equipment.

It’s important to be aware that claims must be supported by strong medical evidence demonstrating a direct link between hydrocarbon exposure and your injury. This is why expert legal guidance is invaluable.

Why Making a Claim Can Be Complex

While the law protects employees, hydrocarbon exposure claims can be legally complex. Several factors make these cases challenging:

• Causation: You must prove that your injury or illness was directly caused by hydrocarbon exposure at work.
• Employer Negligence: You need to show that your employer failed to provide a safe working environment, adequate training, or proper protective equipment.
• Time Limits: In England and Wales, most personal injury claims must be made within three years of the date of injury or the date you became aware of the injury. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to compensation.
• Medical Evidence: Comprehensive medical documentation is required, often including specialist reports linking your condition to workplace exposure.

Without proper legal support, it’s easy to make mistakes that can reduce the amount of compensation or lead to claims being denied.

Why You Should Hire a Personal Injury Solicitor

If hydrocarbon exposure at work injures you, contact a personal injury solicitor as early as possible as they have:

1. Expertise in Complex Legislation

Hydrocarbon exposure claims involve multiple legal frameworks, such as the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.

A personal injury solicitor understands has a solid understanding of legal requirements and can navigate the legal complexities efficiently.

2. Access to Medical and Scientific Experts

Successful claims often require detailed medical and occupational reports. Solicitors have established networks of specialist doctors, toxicologists, and workplace safety experts who can provide credible evidence to strengthen your case.

3. Dealing with Insurance Companies

Employers’ insurers may attempt to minimise payouts or deny liability. However, your solicitor will negotiate on your behalf, ensuring you receive fair compensation while preventing insurers from taking advantage of your lack of legal knowledge.

4. Maximising Compensation

Solicitors can accurately calculate both general and special damages to ensure you receive full compensation for your injuries.

5. No Win, No Fee Options

We partner with experienced personal injury lawyers who offer “no win, no fee” agreements. This means you can pursue your claim without worrying about upfront legal costs. But if your case is unsuccessful, you typically won’t owe solicitor fees.

Steps to Take After Hydrocarbon Exposure

If you suspect that you’ve been injured due to hydrocarbon exposure at work, acting quickly is essential:

1. Report the Incident
   Notify your employer immediately and make a written record of the exposure, preferably in the company’s accident book.
2. Seek Medical Attention
   Even if symptoms seem minor, consulting a doctor can provide vital documentation for your claim.
3. Keep Records
   Save all medical reports, pay slips, training certificates, and safety equipment logs. These documents are important to support your claim and prove employer.

 Common Types of Hydrocarbon-Related Injuries

Hydrocarbon exposure can lead to a wide range of health issues. Some of the most common include:

• Dermatitis and Skin Irritation: Prolonged skin contact with hydrocarbons may cause rashes, burns, and other chronic skin conditions.
• Respiratory Disorders: Inhaling hydrocarbon fumes may result in asthma, chronic bronchitis, or other lung conditions.
• Neurological Damage: Certain hydrocarbons may affect the nervous system, potentially causing headaches, dizziness, or long-term cognitive impairments.
• Cancer: Exposure to carcinogenic hydrocarbons has been linked to leukaemia, bladder cancer, and other forms of cancer.

Each injury type requires specific medical evidence, which reinforces the importance of working with a solicitor familiar with occupational exposure claims.

Need Help Today?

Hydrocarbon exposure in the workplace is a serious health risk. If you have been injured due to inadequate safety measures or employer negligence, you may be entitled to claim compensation.

It’s advisable to get your claim started as early as possible. This is to ensure your claim is within the legal deadline, as well as gathering evidence which may be lost or go missing over time.

📞 To discuss your potential claim in confidence now, contact our friendly team at Jefferies Claims on 0333 358 3034.
💻 Alternatively, complete our online contact form to arrange a free, no-obligation consultation.

This guide is general in nature and not a substitute for personalised legal or medical advice.