Asbestosis Claims: Legal Guidance for Victims of Asbestos Exposure

Asbestosis is a serious, long-term lung condition caused by inhaling asbestos fibres over an extended period. Once inside the lungs, these microscopic fibres cause inflammation and scarring (fibrosis) of the lung tissue. The damage is irreversible and typically develops slowly, often taking 20 to 40 years after initial exposure to show noticeable symptoms.

Most cases of asbestosis arise from occupational exposure, particularly in industries such as shipbuilding, construction, insulation, engineering, and manufacturing, where asbestos-containing materials were widely used throughout the 20th century.

Victims of asbestosis caused by the negligence of their employers may be entitled to claim compensation. Ison Harrison Solicitors have the experience and expertise to maximise your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

People diagnosed with asbestosis may experience:

  • Breathlessness, which worsens gradually
  • Persistent dry cough
  • Chest tightness or discomfort
  • Fatigue
  • Clubbing (swelling) of the fingertips

Diagnosis usually involves a combination of chest X-rays or CT scans, lung function tests, and a detailed occupational history to confirm exposure. While there is no cure for asbestosis, treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Employers’ Duties and Legal Framework

Employers in the UK have had legal duties to protect workers from asbestos exposure since at least the mid-20th century. The key legislation includes:

  • Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 – requires employers to ensure, as far as reasonably practicable, the health, safety, and welfare of employees.
  • Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 – imposes strict requirements on identifying, managing, and preventing exposure to asbestos-containing materials.

Failure to comply with these duties may constitute negligence, giving rise to a claim for compensation. Even if your former employer is no longer trading, it is often still possible to bring a claim against their insurers.

What Can You Claim?

A successful asbestosis claim can include compensation for:

  • Pain and suffering
  • Past and future loss of earnings
  • Medical costs and care needs
  • Mobility aids and adaptations to the home
  • Travel expenses and loss of amenity

In some cases, additional benefits such as Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB) or a lump sum under the Pneumoconiosis etc. (Workers’ Compensation) Act 1979 may also be available.

Time Limits for Claiming

You normally have three years to bring a claim from the date you were diagnosed or the date you first became aware your illness may be work-related. However, because of the complex and historic nature of asbestos cases, it is crucial to seek advice as soon as possible to avoid missing this deadline.

How We Can Help

At Ison Harrison Solicitors, we specialise in asbestos-related disease claims and understand the difficulties faced by victims and their families. Our experienced industrial disease team can help trace historical exposure, identify liable parties or insurers, and manage the entire claims process with care and professionalism.

We work on a no win, no fee basis and offer free initial consultations to assess your case.

Get in Touch

If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with asbestosis, contact Ison Harrison today. We are here to help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.

To speak to a member of our specialist industrial diseases team in confidence, call 0113 284 5000 or fill in the enquiry form and we will get back to you. We offer free initial advice and are here to support you every step of the way.