Mesothelioma caused by exposure to asbestos
A North East power station worker who has developed asbestos cancer has received compensation with help from Thompsons Solicitors.
The 77-year-old from Blyth was diagnosed with cancer of the lining of the lungs, mesothelioma in July 2012. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos. There is no known cure for the disease.
The granddad of four was exposed to asbestos while working as a power station cleaner and then as a fitter’s mate and driver from 1964 to 1991.
During his work at the power station as a fitter’s mate he had to pull asbestos lagging off pipes and walls.
He was never warned of the dangers nor provided with protective equipment.
He said it was a huge shock when he was diagnosed with the disease and decided to contact Thompsons Solicitors to find out more about making a claim for compensation.
Thompsons successfully settled the claim out of court in less than four months.
Employers knew the risks of asbestos
The man said: “When I was diagnosed with mesothelioma it was a huge shock. When I was working at the power station I hadn’t given the asbestos any thought. I had no idea it would lead to this all these years later.
“This compensation comes as a great relief. I was tremendously worried about how we would cope. Now I know that my wife will be financially secure in the future.”
Roberta Pyle from Thompsons Solicitors added: “This client gave 30 years of his working life to this power station but was repaid with this terrible fatal disease. His employers knew the risks of asbestos yet workers were never warned of the dangers or adequately protected.
“By acting quickly we have been able to secure compensation for our client within his lifetime which will provide some peace of mind for him and his family during this difficult time.”
Asbestos disease diagnosis? Talk to us for advice and support on how to secure compensation.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, we can support you with advice on how to make a claim.
The process will be explained in plain English and with no obligation – our priority is to provide you with the best, expert advice on whether you have a valid case for compensation, and to signpost you to further sources of support.
There are strict time limits applied to making a claim – usually three years from the date of diagnosis. It doesn’t matter if the exposure to asbestos took place – as it often does – decades ago, the three year time limit applies to the date of knowledge of diagnosis or date of death.
For further information, visit our How to Make A Compensation Claim page.