When California residents are on the job, they may sometimes come into contact with hazardous substances. While some people may feel fine after their initial exposure to certain materials, others may experience toxic exposure if they are around these substances for long periods of time.

Toxic exposure can affect people in a wide variety of ways. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration says that chemicals and other toxins can have long-term and short-term effects on people. If someone is exposed to a harmful substance for a long period of time, he or she may not notice a health problem for several years. However, someone might notice acute health problems immediately. Some people may feel that their throat or nose is irritated when they are around some substances, while others may feel dizzy. People can experience both acute and chronic health problems after exposure to toxins.

Hazardous substances may be chemicals but they can also be fibers or solid materials that workers handle on the job. People might come into contact with toxins by accidentally ingesting them or by breathing chemicals in the air. Other hazards can enter the human body through the skin or the eyes. If someone experiences toxic exposure, he or she might notice several kinds of symptoms. Some people may find they sneeze and cough frequently, while others may have irritated and watery eyes or headaches. People may also experience decreased coordination or nausea.

There are many ways people can prevent prolonged exposure to harmful materials. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, it is a good idea for people to wear protective clothing whenever they will be around a toxic substance. They should also wear protective glasses and gloves. If people are able to use different chemicals at work, it is a good idea to switch to a safer substance. Some people may also want to consider different work processes so they can avoid contact with dangerous chemicals. Additionally, people should make sure they perform varied tasks so they are not always around toxic substances.