CHRONIC RESPIRATORY DISEASE CLAIM

You have a legal right to work in a safe environment and employers who fail to act appropriately are breaking the law. If you have contracted chronic respiratory disease and you believe that it may be due to an employer paying insufficient attention to health & safety in the workplace you may be entitled to receive substantial compensation. Do not simply accept chronic respiratory disease as a cost of doing a certain job or working for a certain firm. Such problems should have been avoided and employers are under legal obligations to carry out risk assessments on potential sources of illness in the workplace and to install appropriate safeguards, mechanisms, equipment and training to avoid compromising employees’ health and safety.

Noxious Substances

There are numerous noxious substances that individuals working in a variety of locations may encounter. Fumes and smoke are two of the most obvious examples. Those working in welding, smelting and furnace work are at risk - the heating and cooling of metal results in fumes that can cause fine particles to enter the lungs. Similar problems can occur in rubber manufacturing factories, in potters’ workshops and in plastic moulders. Fire fighters and workers in energy producing industries are at particular risk of inhaling smoke. Other substances that are known to cause occupational illness include dust from wood, cotton, asbestos and fibreglass. Noxious gases including ammonia and sulphur dioxide may be found in scientific and engineering jobs in which chemical reactions are performed at high temperatures and also in welding, brazing and smelting works. Vapours and solvents from paint, varnish, pesticide and cosmetics may cause workers breathing difficulties.

Symptoms

If you are a worker who could be liable to encounter these noxious substances, observe whether you have symptoms including respiratory irritation, nose and throat discomfort and more generally, flu-like symptoms that fail to clear after a few days. Noxious substances can cause bronchitis and allergies, characterised by respiratory wheezing and discomfort. Metal fume fever and polymer fume fever result from exposure to metal fumes and polymer fumes respectively. The development of adult asthma and emphysema may also result from exposure to irritants in the air.

Free Legal Advice

All of our chronic respiratory disease compensation claims are dealt with using the no win no fee scheme and damages are paid in full. If you would like to speak to a specialist solicitor you can use the helpline or complete the form or just email us. If after talking to us you decide not to take matters further then you are under no obligation to do so and you will not be charged for our advice.