In the 20th century, young women were hired to paint watch dials with radium, unknowingly exposing themselves to deadly radiation. They were told the paint was harmless, and even encouraged to lick their brushes for precision. Many suffered horrifying health effects, like rotting jaws and fatal cancers, as companies denied responsibility. Their battle for justice not only exposed corporate negligence, but also led to major changes in workplace safety standards.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices