We secured a six-figure sum in compensation for our client, Andrew*, after he was diagnosed with hypersensitivity pneumonitis. This was caused by exposure to harmful chemicals at his work. He was left virtually immobile and needed a lung transplant to continue to live.
Andrew’s story
Andrew, a father of three, worked for a manufacturing company that specialised in making luxury yachts. They would do a complete build, which included using wood and fibreglass.
Andrew worked there for 20 years, and during this time he was exposed to isocyanates. These are a family of highly reactive chemicals found in the likes of foams, coatings, paint, glues, and flooring. Isocyanates are listed as hazardous substances by the Health and Safety Executive.
Andrew was eventually diagnosed with hypersensitivity pneumonitis as a result of his exposure to these chemicals.
Andrew was told he’d only live for 12-18 months if he didn’t have a lung transplant. He’d become almost immobile, getting out of breath even walking a few steps. Andrew had become entirely dependent on oxygen tanks to give him the energy to walk short distances. Thankfully, he underwent a successful single lung transplant in July 2022. While his recovery from such major surgery took some time, his quality of life has drastically improved.
Despite his transplant, Andrew must still be very mindful of where he goes. He can’t go anywhere with air conditioning, as this might aggravate his condition. He also can’t go near swimming pools because of the chlorine. Andrew also experienced anxiety of group gatherings due to the fear he may become ill from someone else’s cough or cold.
How we helped Andrew
Andrew was referred to the Birmingham Chest Clinic in 2020. He was encouraged by the clinic to seek legal advice and, in turn, he instructed our hypersensitivity pneumonitis team to discuss claiming compensation for his former employer’s negligence.
We took the time to get to know Andrew and understand how his illness could’ve been caused by his job.
We began by gathering as much evidence as possible to support his claim. We also engaged several independent experts to show that Andrew’s condition was linked to his former job. These included:
- Specialist respiratory evidence
- Care reports
- Occupational hygiene evidence.
A six-figure settlement
A joint settlement meeting was held with Andrew’s former employer. We were able to secure a net total of £290,000 in compensation for Andrew and his family.
This money will go towards ensuring he can live as full a life as possible. It’ll help to compensate for his lost earnings while also paying for treatment and rehabilitation.
Andrew’s claim was handled by Alex Shorey, a Senior Associate Solicitor who specialises in complex and high value industrial disease and injury claims. Alex commented: “We see cases like Andrew’s all too often, tragically. It’s truly inspiring to see that his diagnosis of hypersensitivity pneumonitis hasn’t stopped him from going on to do amazing things and help other people in the process.
“I hope Andrew’s story serves to warn employers that negligence in health and safety can have devastating consequences. These consequences affect their workers, their families, and their company. As avoidable as Andrew’s illness could have been, I’m very pleased we could get him the compensation he deserves.”
A brighter future
Andrew is a determined person and tries to get as much exercise as possible. This includes walking and cycling, trying to achieve 10,000 steps a day. While he still has limitations in how active he can be, Andrew is now able to do his own shopping and get back to things he enjoys. He’s supported by his loving family and friends.
He’s since been involved in the Transplant Games, which took place in Coventry in July 2022. The Transplant Games are nationally recognised and designed to raise awareness and fundraise.
As part of the Games, Andrew played darts and took part in a five-kilometre walk, cheered on by his family.
*Client’s name has been changed to preserve anonymity.
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