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Illinois denies ‘popcorn lung’ workers’ compensation case

The Illinois Fourth District Appellate Court’s Workers’ Compensation Commission Division rejected a claim brought forward by Michael Durbin on Sunday, July 17. Durbin is a former employee of the Chicago-based global food processing company Archer Daniels Midland.

After retiring in 2003 at age 48 after working at the factory for 30 years, Durbin said he sustained chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in July 2003 due to frequent exposure to irritants. Durbin said his disease was one of “popcorn workers’ lung,” a pulmonary disease first observed in former workers of a microwave popcorn factory in Missouri. The United States National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) said the disease is attributable to people who work with flavorings that include diacetyl.

At Spiros Law, P.C., we value our clients’ welfare, and we fight to secure them the best possible outcome in their workers’ compensation claim cases. We are committed to helping employees realize their basic human rights and will assist them every step of the way. Call our Champaign, Illinois offices today at 217-328-2828 to speak with a qualified member of our legal team.