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Asbestos claims

By the year 2020 it is expected that between 5,000 and 10,000 people per year will die in the UK from asbestos-related illnesses.

Historically, claims have been made mainly by people employed in the asbestos industry, but an increasing number of claims are now emerging from other workers, particularly in the construction industry and ancillary trades, including carpenters, electricians, plumbers etc.

Even if your symptoms appeared years later as a result of working with asbestos you may still be able to claim compensation.

Injured at Work – A Breach of Duty

All employers have a responsibility to safeguard their employees in the workplace. This is known as a 'duty of care', and involves a statutory obligation to look after your welfare.

Many of these laws are laid out in the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, which amongst other things requires an employer to ensure:-

• The premises is safe;
• Equipment/machinery is appropriate and well maintained;
• The correct training and supervision is provided;
• Exposure to harmful substances (such as chemicals) is controlled;
• Competent staff are employed;
• Regular risk assessments are carried out;
• There are first aid facilities available.

Should an employer fail to comply with these responsibilities, they have breached their duty of care.