John McQuillan is the founder, chairman and CEO at Triumvirate Environmental.
Following National Cancer Prevention Month in February, I’m reminded that cancer remains one of the most significant health threats globally, ranking as the second-leading cause of death worldwide. And while lifestyle factors like smoking and diet are well-documented contributors, occupational exposure to carcinogens is a lesser-known but alarming risk.
According to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, about 5% to 8% of all cancers worldwide stem from exposure to workplace carcinogens, underscoring the severity of this hidden danger.
As a business owner, I’ve seen firsthand how employee health can impact not only individuals and their families but also the overall success of a company. A safe work environment isn’t just about compliance—it’s about valuing people and creating a culture of care.
Hazardous Materials In The Workplace
Workplace environments in various industries may expose employees to hazardous materials, increasing employees’ risk of developing cancer. Careers with well-known risk factors that come to mind are firefighting and mining. But there are many professions where the risks are less apparent that can result in prolonged exposure to carcinogens.
Some of the most concerning carcinogenic substances found in workplaces include asbestos, which is common in construction materials and linked to lung cancer and mesothelioma; benzene, which is found in petroleum and chemical industries and associated with leukemia; formaldehyde, used in healthcare and manufacturing and linked to cancers of the respiratory tract; and lead, found in industrial settings, which poses neurological and organ-related cancer risks. Additional harmful carcinogens include nickel and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and radon.
Exposure to these carcinogens can result in aggressive, life-threatening diseases affecting multiple systems and organs. Occupational cancers frequently impact the lungs, liver, brain and bones, lymphatic system and the skin. Beyond physical health, occupational cancer contributes to mental and emotional strain on employees and their families. The cumulative toll that occupational cancer can have irreparable impacts on overall health and well-being of a company and its employees.
An Established Connection
The link between workplace exposure and cancer has now been officially recognized since 1920. Some of the first recorded causal links date back to 1775 with a high incidence of scrotal cancer in chimney sweeps, and in 1907, when workers developed skin cancer as a result of handling tar or pitch. Even Marie Curie, a pioneer in radioactivity research, which has been used to fight cancer, died after years of exposure to radiation through her work. Curie’s death is an example of the risk that can come with innovation.
Despite advancements in workplace safety, many industries still struggle with hazardous exposures.
Lung cancer is common among agriculture workers across the United States due to prolonged pesticide exposure. Healthcare workers are frequently exposed to formaldehyde in laboratories and medical settings. Construction workers experience high levels of ionizing radiation from prolonged sun exposure and industrial processes.
Creating Healthy And Safe Work Environments
Employers have a duty to minimize risks and create environments where their teams can thrive. Education and proactive safety measures are an effective way to prevent occupational cancer. Business owners can accomplish this by ensuring that employees understand the dangers associated with workplace carcinogens and establishing a safety committee, a group of dedicated and motivated employees from a variety of relevant internal departments who meet regularly to discuss and tackle safety concerns.
It’s also essential for employers to provide and enforce the use of respirators, gloves and personal protective equipment (PPE), and implement safety protocols like air quality monitoring, proper ventilation and hazard communication programs. Employers can also increase employee well-being by promoting initiatives that support healthy living and encouraging staff to seek out routine and regular health screenings.
The health and safety of employees should be a top priority for every company. Investing in robust workplace safety measures protects workers, and it can also increase workforce retention, positively influence company culture and prevent costly legal and medical expenses.
I’ve seen organizations thrive when they take employee safety seriously. It’s not just about regulations—it’s about creating a workplace culture that values health, well-being and sustainability.
Businesses should seek expert guidance in hazardous waste management. Partnering with professional waste disposal services ensures that hazardous materials are handled safely, protecting both employees and the environment. (Disclosure: My company helps with this, as do others.)
Ensure the provider has the necessary permits and certifications, such as OSHA safety training. Different industries face unique waste challenges, so it’s crucial to work with a provider experienced in handling the specific hazardous materials relevant to your business.
Look for providers who prioritize sustainable waste management solutions, including recycling and waste-to-energy programs, while maintaining the highest safety standards. A good provider should offer rapid response services for spills or unexpected hazardous waste incidents. Reliable waste management partners should provide clear documentation and reporting to ensure regulatory compliance and track waste disposal methods.
By prioritizing safety, education and expert intervention, businesses can create healthier work environments and prevent the devastating effects of occupational cancer. The cost of prevention is far less than the cost of inaction.
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