Seasonal farmworkers in California play a huge role in keeping the agricultural industry running. But the job comes with risks, especially when it involves pesticide exposure. If you’ve developed a health issue from pesticide contact, you might wonder if workers’ compensation can help. The good news is that California law provides protection for workers in high-risk jobs, including seasonal agriculture.
Understanding pesticide-related illnesses
Pesticides can cause health problems like rashes, breathing trouble, and long-term issues such as cancer. You don’t have to work directly with pesticides to be affected. Just being near treated fields can lead to exposure. California recognizes pesticide-related illnesses as legitimate work injuries under its workers’ compensation system. That means if you’re diagnosed with a condition tied to pesticide exposure, the law may be on your side.
Who qualifies for workers’ compensation?
Even if you’re a seasonal or temporary farmworker, you have rights. In California, most employees—including part-time and seasonal workers—qualify for workers’ compensation. It doesn’t matter if you’re not a full-time employee or if you’re only working during certain months of the year. If your illness happened because of your job, you can file a claim. Employers must provide coverage, and it doesn’t depend on immigration status or the length of employment.
How to support your claim
To help your claim succeed, report your symptoms to your employer right away. Get medical attention and tell the doctor your symptoms might be work-related. Keep any medical records and test results. You should also gather details about your work location and the types of chemicals used nearby. These documents help connect your illness to pesticide exposure at work. It also helps to speak with coworkers who might have had similar symptoms to support your claim.
If you’re having breathing problems, skin irritation, or other symptoms that might be linked to pesticide exposure, take action quickly. Waiting too long can make it harder to prove the connection to your job. Workers’ compensation can cover your medical bills and provide temporary wage replacement while you recover. Fast reporting and medical documentation often make the process smoother.