WORK-RELATED ILLNESS - LUNG DISEASE

There are many different categories and types of work-related lung disease in addition to those caused by exposure to asbestos. The most commonly occurring categories are:-

  • pneumoconiosis – this category includes asbestosis, as well as “coalminer’s pneumoconiosis” (or “black lung”) caused by the inhalation of coal dust and “silicosis” which is predominantly found amongst former foundry, quarry and pottery workers and is caused by the inhalation of silica dust
  • chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (or “COPD”) – amongst other diseases, this category includes pulmonary emphysema and chronic bronchitis, both of which can be caused by the inhalation of fumes and dust in the workplace (as well as by other factors)
  • occupational asthma (asthma developed by exposure to a substance in the workplace) and work-related asthma (pre-existing asthma that is made worse by something in the workplace)

Many of these work related lung diseases are being experienced now by the older generations as a consequence of working practices and environments that are no longer tolerated. For example, it’s estimated that more than 70% of those suffering non asbestos pneumoconiosis are aged 65 or more.

The numbers affected by these work-related lung diseases are, though, significant. For example, the Health and Safety Executive estimates that work-related COPD alone kills more than 75 people in the UK every week.

The general provisions about all industrial diseases apply to workers who develop work-related pneumoconiosis, COPD, occupational asthma or one of the other lung diseases. Workers have both general and statutory duties owed to them by their employer and, if there is a breach of those duties which results in a worker developing a lung disease, that worker may be entitled to compensation from the employer. That entitlement continues after the employment finishes.

If you’re unsure whether you may have a valid compensation claim for a work related lung disease, call us now on 08448 700 800 to discuss how we can help or simply fill in the CALL ME box and we’ll ring you. Alternatively, you can start your claim immediately by answering a few simple questions on the CLAIM NOW page and we’ll do the rest.

Remember – If you suffer lung disease caused by work in Scotland, your compensation claim is best dealt with by Scottish specialists and you won’t pay a penny for our help, whatever happens.