Labourer acquires late mesothelioma

Mr I worked for the Defendant as a builder’s labourer for 35 years at a variety of construction sites.

Much of his work brought about asbestos inhalation. In one larger job, carpenters were using handsaws to cut asbestos sheets (in order to box in metal girders in schools).

Mr I’s duties included dry sweeping up the asbestos dust and debris created by the joiners’ work of cutting asbestos sheets.

At no stage was the Claimant warned about the dangers of asbestos or provided with any form of respiratory protection.

About 10 years after retirement, at the age of 78, Mr I developed a malignant pleural mesothelioma. He survived for over 18 months after diagnosis in great pain. Given his age at the onset of disease his loss of life expectancy was small.

The claim was made and settled during his lifetime for £81,000. The legal costs were paid by the defendant.


59 year old electrician dies of mesothelioma

Mr L was employed by the Defendant between about 1959 and 1968, initially on a five year apprenticeship and thereafter for four years as a qualified electrician. He worked on contracts at a variety of domestic and commercial properties.

Throughout that period he undertook work exposing him to asbestos. His work revolved around boiler pump and heating control systems. Much of this work was carried out in boiler rooms where asbestos lagging was present. His work required the removal of asbestos lagging around the control mechanisms, disturbing the asbestos lagging.

At no stage was he provided with any warnings regarding the dangers presented by asbestos or provided with any respiratory protection. He developed a malignant pleural mesothelioma as a result of his occupational exposure to asbestos that caused his premature death at the age of just 59.

He experienced progressive breathlessness, chest pain and general fatigue, underwent extensive medical investigations and treatments (both invasive and non-invasive).

During the last weeks of his life he experienced intractable pain requiring high levels of pain-killing medication and nursing care. He suffered from mesothelial symptoms for approximately 18 months.

The claim was settled for £312,500.00. The legal costs were paid by the defendant.