Personal injury advice from
Thompsons Solicitors
Silicosis Compensation Claim for Former Foundry Worker
18th April 2011
Our lawyers are specialists in industrial disease and we recently acted in a personal injury claim on behalf of a former foundry worker suffering from a work-related illness.
Exposed to Dust at Work
In the course of his work at a foundry, our client used grinding and linishing machines and this work generated a lot of dust. There was a dust extraction system in place and our client would also have to manually clean the extraction fans and empty the dust they collected as part of his duties.
He was supplied with basic paper masks to use whilst working, but would go through several of these each day as they would become blackened with dust over time. The extraction systems also often broke down or failed to work efficiently. By the end of a shift there would be a coating of dust on the surfaces in his work area, but it was only near to the end of his time with the company that air-fed masks were brought into use.
Our client developed emphysema and silicosis, a type of pneumoconiosis. This is a permanent respiratory illness caused by inhaling hazardous silica particles and sufferers experience breathing difficulties, reduced lung function and chest pain. Our client was unable to continue working in the same occupation because of his illness and had to take a lower paid job.
Industrial Disease Claim
The claimant approached us for help with making a compensation claim. We pursued a case against his former employer, on the basis that they could have done more to reduce his risk of injury. Better personal protective equipment or more efficient extraction systems could have prevented his illness.
The Defendant denied liability and it was necessary for us to begin court proceedings, however we were able to negotiate a settlement of damages for our client before the case went to trial and he received £35,000. This compensation was in respect of the pain and suffering caused by his condition and also his financial losses related to the illness, such as his loss of earnings and reduced pension entitlement.
Advice on Work-Related Illnesses
If you are suffering from a personal injury or illness caused by your working conditions, you may be entitled to pursue an injury claim.
At The Legal Line our specialist personal injury lawyers have a wealth of experience in accident and industrial disease cases and we can provide you with the best possible legal advice on a cost-free, confidential basis. Contact us on 0800 0328511, or by completing a claim enquiry form online, for expert advice.
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