Inquest Highlights Devastating Impact Of Mesothelioma
16/11/2011
The death of a woman exposed to asbestos while working as a cleaner in a college highlights how the deadly material should no longer just be associated with industrial environments, an asbestos-related disease specialist at Irwin Mitchell has outlined.
A verdict of industrial-related death was recorded at the inquest into Brenda Waddell’s death, after the coroner heard a statement prepared by the deceased in which it was revealed she most likely came into contact with asbestos while working at Grimsby College between 1984 and 2007.
The Grimsby Telegraph reports that Mrs Waddell was 61 when she died of asbestos-related illness mesothelioma in September this year.
Reports of the case come after research by the Asbestos In Schools campaign group revealed that, in terms of female occupations, the highest number of mesothelioma deaths between 1991 and 2005 was recorded in cleaning jobs.
Asbestos experts at Irwin Mitchell act for a number of victims who have contracted mesothelioma and other conditions after exposure to asbestos in a range of environments, including factories and public buildings including schools.
Adrian Budgen, national head of asbestos litigation at Irwin Mitchell, said cases like that of Mrs Waddell are increasingly common.
He outlined: “While still largely linked with industrial sites, we are increasingly seeing a number of cases in which those working in buildings like hospitals and schools – including pupils – have been exposed to asbestos.
“This deadly material has left a terrible mark on so many lives and cases of this kind only serve to demonstrate why councils, employers and firms in the construction trade need to ensure they are following the best possible safety standards when working in close proximity to it.
“We act for so many victims and families who have lost loved ones as a result of companies ignoring the dangers and it is vital that this stops. Lessons need to be learned and safety standards improved if other people are to avoid the terrible impact of asbestos exposure.”
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