Specialist lawyers at Irwin Mitchell have secured a settlement for the partner of a man who died from the asbestos-related cancer mesothelioma, which developed as a result of his past exposure to asbestos dust.
Background
Mr B worked for Bootle & Norman Limited in the 1960s as a wood machinist at the company’s premises on Poole Road, Nuneaton. During these periods he spent substantial periods of time working in a shed at the site, where he had to cut Asbestolux sheets and corrugated asbestos sheeting to size.
He was heavily exposed to asbestos dust in the shed, which had little ventilation for the extraction of dust. Mr B was never warned of the hazards of working with asbestos and wasn’t provided with any effective personal protective equipment.
Mr B sadly died as a result of his condition at only 62 years old. At the time he was still in full time employment, which he planned to stay in until state retirement age, when he looked forward to starting a long retirement.
He developed increasing chest pain and shortness of breath in November 2010. He initially suspected that the symptoms were due to a previous heart complaint, but 2 months later he receiving the shattering news that he was suffering from mesothelioma. He passed away in July 2011.
How Irwin Mitchell Helped
His partner instructed Irwin Mitchell to investigate his claim. They took on the task of investigating the company history and locating witnesses. Irwin Mitchell eventually agreed a settlement of £188,000 with the company’s insurers for Mr B’s partner
Satinder Bains, a Partner in the workplace illness team at Irwin Mitchell’s Birmingham office, acted on behalf of Mr B’s partner.
She said: “Mr B was wrongfully exposed to asbestos dust during his work as a wood machinist for Bootle and Norman. Sadly, we are now seeing an increasing number of cases involving workers who have developed mesothelioma from asbestos sheet products of the type Mr B was required to cut.
“This devastating news all too often comes many years after workers have been exposed to asbestos. In Mr B’s case, it tragically cut short his life as he was approaching retirement age, and looking forward to a long and healthy retirement.”
Our expert mesothelioma solicitors will provide you with free initial advice on your compensation claim if you or a loved on has been diagnosed with mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure. See our Asbestos-Related Disease Claims Guide for more information.
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