Our client, Mr. R, reached out to us after a biopsy confirmed the devastating diagnosis of mesothelioma. Despite being actively involved in running his own business, Mr. R’s plans for a well-deserved retirement with his wife were tragically disrupted. We promptly took action to pursue justice for the couple.
Exposure as an apprentice compositor
Mr. R’s employment began in 1968 when he served as an apprentice compositor at East Midlands Allied Press Limited, situated on Bakers Lane, Woodston, Peterborough. We discovered that the company, colloquially known as “EMAP” operated under the name of Ascential Group Limited and we were able to obtain details regarding the relevant insurer during Mr. R’s employment.
Mr. R recounted his experiences as an apprentice compositor, highlighting his involvement in various activities across the company site. He vividly remembered working within a newly constructed three-story building, where maintenance activities were underway in the internal offices. These tasks involved affixing 8 x 4 foot asbestos sheeting onto a 2-inch square timber framework, often requiring the cutting of asbestos sheeting with hand saws or table-top electric saws. Consequently, debris and dust permeated the air, inevitably leading to Mr. R inhaling the hazardous particles. The asbestos dust coated his workstation, drawing boards, desks, and even clung to his hair and clothes, necessitating periodic cleaning.
The maintenance team would frequently attend to the removal or re-fixing of asbestos tiles in the ceiling, sometimes directly above Mr. R. This activity resulted in further asbestos dust descending upon him like rain. At the end of the workday, the team would use a standard yard brush to sweep up the accumulated debris, causing clouds of dust to disperse into the atmosphere once again.
Although Mr. R was not directly engaged in cutting asbestos materials, he endured what is known as “passive” asbestos exposure while working in close proximity to others carrying out this task. He inhaled harmful asbestos fibres without any protection in the form of a mask or any other protective equipment.
Private treatment costs secured
In Mr. R’s case, we sought the expertise of a Consultant Oncologist as part of his claim, who recommended that Mr. R undergo private medical treatment to combat his mesothelioma. The consultant confirmed Mr. R’s suitability for various treatments, some of which were not readily available through the NHS, including specific types of immunotherapy treatment.
With the endorsement of this respected expert, we ensured that Mr. R’s settlement encompassed provision for the necessary private medical treatment in addition to his secured compensation figure of £268,500.
Following the conclusion of the claim, Mr. R and his wife expressed their gratitude for the substantial settlement and the personalised and professional service provided by our expert solicitor, James Cameron, and his team.
If you need help pursuing a mesothelioma claim or believe you have a valid claim for another asbestos-related disease, please contact us today on 01244 312306. Alternatively, visit our Contact Us page, fill out the form, and we will get in touch with you.
