Longtime smoker can’t prove claim to permanent disability benefits

A marketing director, who was a longtime smoker, noticed discolorations in the tiles in most of her office after she began working for her employer. She had respiratory problems and was diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and allergies. A coworker noticed leaks and a broken ceiling tile in her office. The director tested the filter of the air purifier she used in her office, which contained a common allergen. A complete indoor air quality assessment was performed at the office building and revealed elevated mold concentrations. The director filed for workers’ compensation benefits alleging that she was injured as...