PRESS RELEASE FROM THOMPSONS SOLICITORS
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thompsons Solicitors, specialists in victims’ rights, has set up a dedicated telephone helpline following a serious outbreak of Legionnaire’s disease in Edinburgh which has left one dead and fifteen in critical condition.
As the leading experts in disease related cases, Thompsons announced today that its Legionnaire’s disease helpline (0800 081 0045) will be manned by the firm’s specialist lawyers from 9am until 8pm, Monday to Friday.
Patrick McGuire, partner at Thompsons Solicitors, comments:
“This is a worrying time for the residents of Edinburgh and until the source of the epidemic is identified, many people will be in a state of panic.
“We’re committed to the local community and our expert lawyers are on-hand to provide advice and assistance to those affected by the outbreak and their families.
“Outbreaks of the disease usually originate in large buildings such as hospitals and hotels with complex water supply and air conditioning systems. However the dangers of Legionnaire’s disease are well-known to the owners of these buildings and they have a duty of care to inspect, monitor and maintain their water systems to prevent contamination.
“If a building owner used faulty equipment or failed to monitor their systems adequately, they can be prosecuted and be held liable to pay compensation to anyone who suffers personal injury or loss as a result of contracting the disease.”
“Each year we work with the victims and families of those affected by Legionnaires' disease to get justice and to ensure that building owners and operators protect the community from potentially fatal health hazards such as this.”
Thompsons hotline: 0800 081 0045ENDS
Note to editors: to arrange further comments/quotes from Patrick McGuire, contact Tim Weir on 0141 221 8840, e-mail @ThompsonsTim
