Työtaudista

Työtauti is a Finnish term referring to an occupational disease. It is a disease that arises as a direct consequence of an employee's work. This can be due to physical, chemical, biological, or psychosocial factors encountered in the workplace. The condition must be recognized as an occupational disease according to Finnish legislation to be eligible for compensation and treatment under the workers' compensation system.

Common causes of occupational diseases include exposure to harmful substances like asbestos, dust, or chemicals, repetitive physical strain leading to musculoskeletal disorders, exposure to loud noise causing hearing loss, and prolonged stress or harassment contributing to mental health issues.

Diagnosis of a työtauti typically involves a medical professional assessing the worker's health condition, considering their work history, and evaluating the potential link between their symptoms and their work environment. This often includes medical examinations and sometimes specialized tests.

If a condition is recognized as a työtauti, the affected employee is entitled to receive medical treatment, rehabilitation services, and financial compensation for lost income and other related expenses. The goal of the workers' compensation system is to protect workers' health and ensure they are adequately supported if they suffer an illness due to their employment. Prevention of occupational diseases is also a significant focus, with employers and authorities working to identify and mitigate workplace hazards.