Asbestos in the Southwest and its impact on our people

Asbestos was a major commercial material during the industrial revolution in the UK and was used widely across the Southwest. However, it did not become banned from use until1999. We have therefore not had any asbestos imported or used in this country for over 20 years. But what impact has this had on the health of people in the UK previously exposed to asbestos?

Britain sadly has the highest asbestos related condition rates in the world due to the prolific use of asbestos.

In the Southwest of England over the last 2 decades, some sectors have been more affected than others.  These have included constructions workers, plumbers, electricians and carpenters, as well as a significant proportion of the local population who worked in and around the local dockyard in Plymouth.

Asbestos was widely used in Devonport Dockyard as lagging on pipes and boilers in the ships and submarines.It would have also been used in the many buildings on site and by many of the workers there.

We are also aware now that more women are being diagnosed with asbestos related conditions than previously,as they had worked in public buildings such as hospitals, factories and schools which could have contained asbestos.

There are several reasons why it is incredibly hard to ascertain the number of people which have these problems, mainly because it is very hard to identify some asbestos related diseases when there has been a background of other health complaints. It is also very hard to distinguish asbestos related conditions from other breathing difficulties without some investigation. However, at Wolferstans, we have many specialist consultants who can assist with consultations to confirm your diagnosis.

It has been noted that the failure to recognise and compensate thousands of individuals within this country who are suffering from asbestos related conditions and breathing difficulties has been labelled a national disgrace. Wolferstans Solicitors are therefore proud to help the local communities in getting the compensation they justly deserve following the diagnosis of any asbestos related condition.

Now that we are 20 years on from the point when asbestos was banned in the UK, we have much more information and awareness about these asbestos related conditions which include pleural plaques, pleural thickening, lung cancer, asbestosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and mesothelioma, and therefore help can be received once a diagnosis is made.

If you have ever worked with asbestos or are aware of anybody that has come into contact with asbestos and has developed an asbestos related condition or breathing difficulties, then please contact our specialist Asbestos team who have many years of experience in this field. We provide free initial advice and consultations and advise you on the best route of action for your claim. We also offer free home visits if preferred, to ensure that you are fully advised in relation to your legal rights and any benefits which you may be entitled to.

Book a free no-obligation consultation today with our specialist Asbestos Team by calling 01752 663295.