Q: I drank water from a fountain at my job. Dirty water. I think it made me sick. Is this lawsuit or worker’s comp worthy?
We finally got our fountain fixed a few weeks ago. I asked my manager was it okay to use, she said yes, but the water pressure was low. I never noticed anything. I happened to get sick around the next few days. I took off work one day, left early on the other days I worked. I was forced to use my vacation/sick time. Fast forward today, I’m almost okay, but still fighting it off. I have a slight cough that was gone a few days ago. I figure it’s because the place is dusty, to be expected, and I have allergies. I drink to stop the itchy throat, it didn’t help. It made it worse. I say forget it and screw the top back on, but then I notice a lot of floaters. A bunch of dirt has gathered at the bottom. I was appalled, and terrified. I don’t know what the heck I just drank, but I know it’s not safe, as I now have an upset stomach. Just to mention, the fountain is open for the public, there was no sign. I put one up after I noticed, my own handwriting, I don’t want anyone else getting sick.
A: If you consume something on the job that you believe made you sick you should report it to your employer. Often times, the employer will send you to a doctor to evaluate you and they will also investigate your claim. It is important to report it immediately to your employer, and let them know you believe it is related to a work event. You would need to also be able to prove that the condition is work related and due to the water in the fountain.
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