Longtime weapons-production workers have complained for years of illnesses. Their advocates have said the workers suffered from cancers and lung disease because of long-term exposure to beryllium, mercury, uranium, asbestos and other materials under inadequate safety standards set by the Energy Department and its predecessor, the Atomic Energy Commission. The claims would be considered by the Labor Department. While the claims initially must be linked to illnesses from exposure to beryllium, other illnesses may be added later, officials said. An independent panel of scientists was to examine possible expansion of coverage to other toxic or radioactive exposures.
Beryllium is a rare chemical element associated with several metallic alloys used in atomic weapons.
Although private contract employees made up the vast majority of the workforce at the nuclear facilities, they have been ineligible to apply for federal compensation. They also have been unable to collect under state worker-compensation programs because the state programs were designed for injuries, not occupational illnesses. You have reached the end of the file.