Exposed to asbestos in Cardiff Docks
Thompsons Solicitors has succeeded in obtaining substantial compensation for an electrician diagnosed with fatal asbestos cancer.
The 73-year-old from Newport was exposed to asbestos while working as an apprentice electrician for electrical contractors in Cardiff Docks and other docks around the Severn Estuary from 1955 to 1984.
During his 30 years with the company he worked aboard ships during the refit of oil tankers, refrigeration and coal ships. He spent long periods on board in dry dock. It was a dusty environment where old asbestos was being removed and new asbestos was being applied.
Never warned about the dangers of asbestos
He was never warned about the dangers of asbestos or given adequate protection from the dust.
The dad of four and granddad to 11 was diagnosed with the asbestos related cancer mesothelioma in June 2011. There is still no cure for the disease.
The electrical engineer, who had only just begun to enjoy his retirement before his diagnosis, decided to claim compensation after being informed by medical experts that he was suffering from an industrial disease.
Thompsons Solicitors are asbestos claims experts
He instructed asbestos claims experts, Thompsons Solicitors, who successfully secured substantial damages.
He said: “My work was a dust-ridden environment and we always worked without any protection. I never saw masks and although I had overalls I would shake them out at the end of the day without knowing that I was risking my health by breathing in asbestos.
“I hadn’t considered claiming compensation until I was told by the hospital that I might be able to. I’d rather have my health back but it is a relief to know that my wife is provided for in the future.”
Eamonn McDonough from Thompsons Solicitors added: “Unfortunately our client is one of thousands of people who have been affected by the legacy of asbestos in the Cardiff and South Wales area. Mesothelioma is an aggressive disease and we are pleased we have been able to bring his claim to a swift conclusion during his lifetime.”
Asbestos disease diagnosis? Talk to us for advice and support on how to secure compensation.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, we can support you with advice on how to make a claim.
The process will be explained in plain English and with no obligation – our priority is to provide you with the best, expert advice on whether you have a valid case for compensation, and to signpost you to further sources of support.
There are strict time limits applied to making a claim – usually three years from the date of diagnosis. It doesn’t matter if the exposure to asbestos took place – as it often does – decades ago, the three year time limit applies to the date of knowledge of diagnosis or date of death.
For further information, visit our How to Make A Compensation Claim page.