Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral found in rock formations in various parts of the world. Known for its remarkable heat and fire-resistant properties, asbestos became a 'miracle material' during the industrial age. However, despite its practical uses in construction and engineering, the dangers of asbestos exposure have made it a significant public health concern.

In the UK and Scotland, asbestos remains the leading cause of work-related deaths. For many years, workers unknowingly put their health at risk, as employers continued to use asbestos in various industries without sufficient protection for their employees. Even after the dangers became clear, some employers failed to take the necessary precautions to safeguard workers from the potentially deadly consequences of asbestos exposure. This negligence has led to thousands of cases of asbestos-related diseases, including asbestosis and mesothelioma.

History of Asbestos

The history of asbestos dates back centuries. Its fire-retardant properties were known as early as ancient times, but it wasn't until the 19th century that its commercial use took off. The industrial revolution saw a rapid increase in asbestos mining and manufacturing, with asbestos being spun into thread, woven into cloth, and used as an insulating material. By the early 1900s, asbestos was widely used in various industries, from shipbuilding to construction, with factories across the UK manufacturing products containing asbestos.

Despite the known dangers, asbestos continued to be imported into the UK until 1998, with its use peaking in the 1960s. By then, the UK was importing as much as 187,000 tonnes of asbestos annually. Over time, asbestos became embedded in the fabric of UK buildings, used for everything from roof and wall cladding to insulation and soundproofing.

While the health risks associated with asbestos were acknowledged as early as the 1920s, it wasn't until much later that regulations were introduced. The Asbestos Industry Regulations of 1931 were the first attempt to control exposure, but they were insufficient to protect workers fully. It wasn't until the 1970s and 80s that serious restrictions were imposed, with all types of asbestos finally being banned in the UK by 1999.

Asbestos Exposure: How Does It Happen?

Asbestos exposure occurs when fibres are released into the air and inhaled or ingested. The fibres are small enough to lodge deep into lung tissue, causing inflammation and scarring over time. This can lead to serious health issues, including asbestosis, mesothelioma, and other lung conditions.

The level of exposure plays a critical role in determining the risk of developing an asbestos-related disease. Workers in industries such as shipbuilding, construction, engineering, and insulation were among those most heavily exposed to asbestos. For many of these workers, exposure spanned decades, with large amounts of asbestos dust being inhaled day after day.

In the past, employers believed that controlling dust levels would reduce the number of cases of asbestos-related diseases, but this proved overly optimistic. Even low levels of exposure over an extended period can lead to serious health consequences. It is now understood that any exposure to asbestos can be harmful, with some individuals developing illnesses after relatively brief or intermittent exposure.

Asbestos exposure isn't limited to those who worked directly with the material. Secondary exposure can occur when fibres are brought home on workers' clothing, putting family members at risk. Today, asbestos remains present in many older buildings, posing a risk to those involved in renovations or demolition if proper safety measures are not in place.

How is Asbestos Diagnosed?

Diagnosing asbestos-related diseases such as asbestosis can be challenging because the symptoms often take decades to appear after initial exposure. Common symptoms include shortness of breath, persistent coughing, and chest pain, which may be mistaken for other conditions.

If you suspect you have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing these symptoms, it’s essential to consult your doctor. They will first need to rule out other causes of pulmonary fibrosis and assess your occupational history. This will involve questions about any past exposure to asbestos and the duration and intensity of that exposure.

For a conclusive diagnosis, a lung disease specialist will be consulted. They will perform a range of tests, which may include:

• Chest X-rays to identify any scarring or pleural plaques in the lungs.
• CT scans for a more detailed image of the lungs and to spot early signs of fibrosis.
• Spirometry and pulmonary function tests to measure lung capacity and how well gases like oxygen are transferred to the bloodstream.

A definitive diagnosis of asbestosis may also involve listening to the chest with a stethoscope, where crackles in the lungs can indicate scarring. In some rare cases, a biopsy may be performed to confirm the presence of asbestos fibres in the lung tissue, although this is not commonly done in the UK.

It is important to note that once asbestos fibres have embedded themselves in lung tissue, they can continue to cause damage even after exposure has ceased. Asbestosis, in particular, progresses slowly, but its effects are irreversible. Workers exposed to asbestos many years ago may only now be feeling the consequences of that exposure.

Conclusion: Seeking Justice and Compensation for Asbestos-Related Illnesses

At Thompsons Solicitors, we understand how devastating an asbestos-related diagnosis can be for you and your family. The physical toll of diseases like asbestosis and mesothelioma is immense, and the financial burden can be overwhelming. However, you don't have to face this challenge alone.

Our experienced asbestos lawyers are here to help you claim the compensation you deserve. Compensation can cover medical care, loss of income, and help to ease the financial strain on your family during a difficult time. Whether you worked in construction, insulation, plumbing, or other industrial roles, if you've been exposed to asbestos, you may have a valid claim.

We offer a No Win No Fee service, so you won't pay anything unless your case is successful. Contact Thompsons Solicitors today for expert legal advice and to find out how we can assist you in making a claim. Call us or reach out to us online to get started. 

Together, we can fight for the compensation you deserve and bring justice to those affected by asbestos exposure.