3 December 2021
A recent BBC article highlighted the continuing problems with exposure to asbestos amongst people who have not worked directly with asbestos in an occupational setting, but are working in buildings that may still contain asbestos. Prior to 1999, the use of asbestos was used extensively, especially in the building trade and it is estimated that 50% of homes built prior to 1999 may still contain asbestos. If asbestos is disturbed or not maintained, then it releases asbestos fibres which become airborne and harmful.
One such threat to health is Malignant Mesothelioma which is a form of cancer that affects the pleura (the external lining of the lung) and the peritoneum (the lining of the lower digestive system) and usually develops following exposure to asbestos fibres. It takes years to develop and symptoms only really start to present themselves late in the development of the disease which means that many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Once diagnosed then it is always almost always fatal and often within 12 months of onset of symptoms.
According to the British Lung Foundation, asbestos related diseases are the single greatest cause of work-related deaths in the UK with an average of 20 workers a week dying from asbestos exposure.
Latest information published by the HSE in 2021 shows that there were 2,369 mesothelioma deaths in Great Britain. Of those 2,369 deaths, 1,945 were males and 422 were females. Evidence suggests that around 85% of all males with mesothelioma were exposed to asbestos fibres in an occupational setting. The remaining 15% of males with mesothelioma and the majority of female deaths are likely to have been caused by exposure to asbestos which is not due to direct handling of asbestos materials.
Rates are usually higher in people aged 70 years or older due to the disease latency period and when the exposure of asbestos occurred. Although there have been studies which show there has been an increase in the background risk amongst those that did not directly handle asbestos, mainly females and males aged 65 year and younger.
Despite recognition of its potential dangers, it was not until 1999 that the Government decided to ban the use and import of all types asbestos. The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2006 prohibits the use, supply and importation of all asbestos. These Regulations were updated by the Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012.
Asbestos related diseases can have a devastating effect not only on the individual but also the families. Whilst no money can be placed on a life, the compensation awarded can provide financial peace of mind for the individual and the families care.
If you have recently been diagnosed with Mesothelioma or any other asbestos related disease as a result of past exposure to asbestos in an occupational setting or in environment in which asbestos was not adequately maintained or disturbed, then you may be entitled to claim compensation.
At Williamsons Solicitors, we have a specialist team that can help you obtain the compensation that could be owed to you.
