Marine engineers in Scotland routinely worked with asbestos insulation and parts made of asbestos-containing materials until the 1980s.
Whether they were employed as part of retro-fitting teams or engaged in maintenance or repair, airborne asbestos exposure was the reality for Scotland's marine engineers.
Health and Safety Executive figures describe how there has been an upward trend in asbestos-related deaths over the past two decades, with mesothelioma the major cause, and Scotland contains several of the places which have the highest rates of death. These include:
- Glasgow City
- Inverclyde
- Renfrewshire
- West Dunbartonshire
Even though scientific findings from as early as the 1920s and 1930s provided compelling evidence of links between asbestos and various cancers and respiratory conditions, those who found profit in use of the substance continued to employ it – nowhere was this more true than in the shipbuilding and marine engineering industry.
If you or a close family member have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness you can speak with Thompsons Solicitors today about your rights and options regarding compensation. We are Scotland's leading personal injury firm and have the experience and authority to ensure settlement in claims for marine engineer asbestos exposure. Call 0800 0891 331 today.
Invaluable benefit
Whether you worked as a shipbuilding marine engineer, an insulation engineer, a boiler engineer or in some other capacity – for example, a plumber, lagger, carpenter or welder – Thompsons Solicitors possess a unique database of insurers, employers, witnesses and documented working practices. This can help bring invaluable benefit in tracing all concerned and increasing the efficiency of your claim.
A tragedy that is yet to reach its peak
Although the Asbestos Regulations of 1969 represented an important first step in reducing occupational asbestos exposure in the UK, it was not until 1987's Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations that any effective instruments of statutory control came into force.
However, there is still work to be done and it was not until 2002 that the bill was amended so as to oblige employers to both identify and manage asbestos.
Scotland's leading asbestos lawyers
Whether you have suffered direct exposure to asbestos, secondary exposure through contaminated items or have lost someone to an illness such as mesothelioma or pleural plaques, Thompsons Solicitors can help you ensure your rights are upheld in law.
Although we cannot turn back the clock, compensation can help provide for the many practical realities you face as well as in providing some recognition of your loss and suffering.
For more information call our specialists in asbestos claims for marine engineers today on 0800 0891 331 and talk things through with one of our lung disease lawyers.
Photo © Steven Straiton via Flickr, under Creative Commons Licence
