Unlike any other injury at work claims – asbestos related diseases can take years to make themselves known. On average it takes between 20-40 years for symptoms of the disease to show. When symptoms do become apparent they can have drastic effects, causing life-threatening illness from diseases such as Mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is a deadly form of cancer that develops in the chest; it forms a membrane that wraps itself around the lungs and other organs. Unfortunately in some cases Mesothelioma can be incurable, and if it develops progressively it can become fatal.
Most victims of asbestos poisoning have come in contact with the disease at some point in their working lives. Asbestos alone if in good condition is not dangerous; it’s when the material becomes damaged that it becomes harmful.
When asbestos becomes damaged it releases small particles into the air, these particles are invisible to the human eye however if breathed in can settle in the lungs causing future life threatening diseases such as cancer.
Asbestos is related to accidents and injuries at work because it is at work when victims of the disease become in contact with it. There are a number of professions that put workers at risk of contracting the disease. These include:
- Plumbers
- Contractors
- Builders
- Electricians
- Painters and decorators
Those listed above are just a few of the professions that may come in contact with the deadly fibres some point in their working lives. Asbestos as a material was used in buildings up until the year 2000. For the past 50 years it was used as a “popular” insulator.
If you have suffered from any form of asbestos related disease and medics have links this to a previous occupation then you may be able to make a compensation claim. For more information on asbestos poisoning or for free legal advice about the disease then contact The Injury Lawyers today.
