Asbestos and Dust-Related Diseases Compensation Claims

Exposure to harmful dusts in the workplace can have lifelong consequences. At Ison Harrison, our expert industrial disease solicitors act for individuals who have developed serious respiratory conditions because of unsafe working conditions, particularly in industries such as construction, shipbuilding, quarrying, and heavy manufacturing.

Dust diseases are often progressive, debilitating, and linked to historic employer negligence. In many cases, the exposure occurred decades ago but legal remedies may still be available. We help clients access compensation for pain and suffering, loss of earnings, care needs, and the impact on family life.

At Ison Harrison, we understand the emotional and practical burden of a long-term diagnosis, and our team is here to guide you through the legal process with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

What Are Dust Diseases?

‘Dust diseases’ refer to a group of serious lung and respiratory conditions caused by prolonged inhalation of hazardous particles at work. These include mineral dusts (such as asbestos and silica), coal dust, and fine airborne irritants generated by cutting, grinding, or handling industrial materials.

The following conditions are commonly linked to workplace dust exposure and may give rise to compensation claims:

  • Asbestosis
    A chronic lung condition caused by long-term inhalation of asbestos fibres. It leads to scarring of the lung tissue (fibrosis) and progressive breathlessness.
  • Bilateral Pleural Thickening (Secondary to Asbestos Exposure)
    A condition where both lung linings become thickened and stiff due to asbestos, often resulting in reduced lung function and breathlessness.
  • Mesothelioma
    A rare but aggressive cancer of the pleural lining, almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. It often develops decades after initial contact.
  • Asbestos-Induced Lung Cancer
    A form of primary lung cancer linked to occupational asbestos exposure, particularly in individuals with high or prolonged exposure histories.
  • Silicosis
    A lung disease caused by inhaling fine silica dust, particularly in stonecutting, quarrying, and foundry work. It leads to scarring and reduced lung function.
  • Chronic Bronchitis / Emphysema
    Long-term exposure to workplace dusts and fumes can contribute to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), including chronic bronchitis and emphysema.

Whether you are newly diagnosed or helping a family member, our solicitors can advise you on your rights and whether a claim is likely to succeed.

Employer Responsibility and Legal Rights

Under the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and associated regulations such as the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH), employers are legally required to protect workers from harmful dust exposure. If your employer failed to provide proper ventilation, protective equipment, or health surveillance, you may be entitled to compensation—even if the exposure occurred many years ago.

Get in Touch

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a dust-related illness, speak to our experienced industrial disease team today. We offer free initial advice and can often act on a no win, no fee basis. Early legal advice is crucial, particularly if the exposure happened decades ago or the employer is no longer trading.

Speak to a solicitor today

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.