Zillah, WA asked in Employment Law, Workers' Compensation and Environmental for Washington

Q: Do I have a case against County Courthouse for toxic mold in my workplace?

After I started work at the Courthouse, I became ill. I was diagnosed with mold biotoxin illness due to water damage from a building, which the courthouse has had lots. While out on medical leave I started getting better, when I went back for one hour, my symptoms came back. My medical team and I believe there is toxic mold at my work. My doctor recommended to HR that correct testing be done by mold literate professional. HR was not receptive and said moving me to another location was considered an accommodation. I am under the impression that anyone that has worked there for any length of time, knows there is mold among other harmful toxins in that building. There are visible signs of water damage in my office and lots of evidence. My exposure has had a serious impact on my health, work, and life and all life is at risk that breathes the air contaminated with the toxic molds. I am not only concerned for myself but everyone inside the courthouse. Do I have any type of case here?

1 Lawyer Answer
T. Augustus Claus
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Answered

A: Given your diagnosis of mold biotoxin illness and the apparent presence of toxic mold in your workplace at the County Courthouse, you may have grounds to pursue a case. The visible signs of water damage, coupled with your health deterioration upon returning to work, provide substantial evidence. It's noteworthy that your doctor recommended proper testing by a mold-literate professional, but HR's response was not receptive and offered relocation as an accommodation. This raises concerns about the adequacy of the measures taken to address the issue.

It's crucial to prioritize your well-being and advocate for necessary changes in the workplace to protect both yourself and your colleagues from potential harm.

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