Associated Octel Co Ltd in Ellesmere Port prosecuted for mesothelioma.

Mr J began employment at Associated Octel Co Ltd in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire in the early 1950s. The company, previously known as Associated Ethyl Co Ltd, was formed to manufacture anti-knock compounds for petrol during wartime. It was initially owned by several major oil companies, including Shell, BP, Esso, and others. The organisation subsequently changed its name to Associated Octel Co Ltd and separated from its original parent group.

During the early 1950s, a full-scale chemical facility was established at Ellesmere Port in Cheshire, representing a major operational expansion. Mr. J served at this location as an Assistant Process Manager.

Associated Octel Co Ltd maintained an in-house maintenance team responsible for addressing operational issues. To carry out repairs, this team was required to remove all asbestos lagging from pipes and vessels, a process that generated substantial quantities of asbestos dust and fibres released into the environment. Following the completion of necessary repairs, the maintenance team subsequently re-applied the lagging to the relevant pipework or vessels.

Pre-formed asbestos components were cut to the required dimensions using a hand saw, a process that produced substantial amounts of asbestos dust and fibres. These shaped asbestos pieces were then affixed to pipework or vessels, and the application was completed with a layer resembling asbestos mud. This material was prepared by combining raw asbestos from bags with water in a bucket or drum to form a paste, which also resulted in the release of asbestos dust and fibres into the surrounding environment.

After the maintenance team completed their work, they were required to clean the area to maintain plant cleanliness. They swept up debris and asbestos dust and fibres using a dry brush and shovel, which resulted in the disturbance of settled asbestos particles and their release back into the air.

Mr J never worked directly with asbestos. However, he worked for Associated Octel Co Ltd for four years, and saw the maintenance team remove asbestos and re-lag pipe work and vessels on and off throughout that time.

Employees received protective gear for their skin but were not given masks or protection against airborne hazards. Consequently, they had no safeguard from asbestos dust and fibres released by the maintenance team.