Workplace Chemical Exposure: Ridge Law Group wins Major Occupational Disease Case Involving Herbicide-related Exposure of Illinois Forest Preserve Employee

Ridge Law Group represented a client who dedicated over three decades of service to the Lake County Forest Preserve, working as a landscape equipment operator and natural resource technician. During his tenure, he was routinely exposed to hazardous chemicals, ultimately leading to a diagnosis of lymphoid leukemia on June 20, 2017.

Despite the severity of his condition, the employer and its insurance carrier denied all medical and workers’ compensation benefits, including reasonable work accommodations during the Petitioner’s cancer treatment.

Throughout the 1990s, the Petitioner applied Cygon insecticide manually using a paintbrush and cup to treat oak trees—a product later removed from the consumer market due to its toxicity. His chemical exposure intensified over time; by 2010, his duties shifted from minimal chemical application (approximately 1%) to a role where chemical spraying comprised 75% of his responsibilities. Products used included “Round-up Pro,” “Aqua Master,” Trimec, Tordon, and GARLON 4.

Medical evaluations confirmed the presence of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (RAL Stage I) with associated thrombocytopenia. The Petitioner’s treating oncologist attributed the malignancy to prolonged chemical exposure in the workplace. Despite this medical opinion, the employer declined to offer a light-duty position that would have mitigated further exposure.

To substantiate the occupational disease claim, Ridge Law Group retained expert oncologist Dr. Peter Orris, who affirmed the causal link between the Petitioner’s leukemia and his long-term exposure to toxic herbicides and insecticides.

Shortly before trial, the parties reached a settlement agreement that included:

• Full payment of past medical expenses,

• $348,000 in permanency benefits,

• Coverage of future medical costs, estimated by the Respondent to reach up to $4,000,000.

This case underscores the importance of holding employers accountable for workplace safety and the long-term health consequences of chemical exposure. Ridge Law Group’s unwavering advocacy not only secured justice for a dedicated public servant but also sent a powerful message about the value of expert testimony and persistence in occupational disease claims. Through strategic litigation and compassionate representation, Ridge Law Group transformed a decades-long struggle into a life-changing resolution—affirming their commitment to protecting workers and pursuing meaningful outcomes.