Asbestos use was common throughout the UK in 1940’s to the mid 1980’s. Many trades were exposed and as a result many workers have been diagnosed with an asbestos related disease due to this exposure. The time period for asbestos related disease to develop can be up to 40 or 50 years from the date of first exposure.
Who is at risk?
The list below details some of the trades that used large quantities of asbestos in their everyday operation; workers in these trades would have at some point come into contact with asbestos.
- Plumbers
- Builders
- Shipyard workers
- Roofers
- Dockers
- Flooring contractors
- Factory workers
- Construction workers
- Bricklayers
What are the symptoms?
Common symptoms of asbestos related disease include:
- shortness of breath
- coughing
- chest pain
- a dry crackling sound in the lungs while inhaling
- weight loss
- lack of or difficulty sleeping
Unfortunately, the detectable symptoms of asbestos exposure can often appear as early as 15 years after exposure, and then reappear at any time during one’s life. This scenario, therefore, makes it difficult to associate asbestos exposure with its symptoms. Annual or even semi-annual asbestos detection tests are recommended for anyone with occupational asbestos exposure.
What shall I do now?
If you are concerned over the risk of Asbestos exposure or are experiencing any of the common symptoms, the first thing we recommend you to do is see your local GP. Your GP may find it difficult to link your symptoms to Asbestos but will be able to refer you to a specialist that will arrange chest x-rays and scans. You can call us now for free on 0800 810 0840 or complete our online enquiry form and we will contact you to discuss your potential claim.
Make your claim
If you were exposed to asbestos and suffer from a related illness as result, you may be entitled to claim compensation for your injuries. If you want to speak with a member of our friendly team then please contact us for free on 0800 810 0840 or you can complete the online enquiry form either way, we're here to help you.
