In this episode, we’ll be exploring infamous cases of (literal) toxic workplaces. First, we will examine the tragic story of the radium girls, who worked in factories painting watch dials with radioactive paint in the early 20th century. Despite being assured that the paint was safe, the women ingested dangerous levels of radium, which led to cancer and other illnesses. Next, we will explore the origins of the phrase “mad as a hatter” and its connection to the hat-making industry in the 18th and 19th centuries. Hat makers used a chemical called mercury nitrate in the production of felt hats, which led to mercury poisoning among workers. Finally, we delve into the world of breaker boys, young boys who worked in coal mines in the 19th and early 20th centuries, sorting coal from debris using their bare hands. These boys were exposed to dangerous levels of coal dust, which led to chronic respiratory diseases and other health problems.

Through examining these three cases, we will gain a better understanding of the devastating impact truly toxic workplaces can have on workers and how these tragedies have influenced workplace safety regulations. Join us as we explore the history of these toxic work environments and the lessons we can learn from them.

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Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Occupational_disease
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radium_Girls
https://www.britannica.com/story/radium-girls-the-women-who-fought-for-their-lives-in-a-killer-workplace
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mad_as_a_hatter
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Breaker_boy
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phossy_jaw
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matchgirls%27_strike