Former scrap metal worker receives provisional settlement for asbestosis

He told Jennifer Seavor how he had started working for Wakefield Metal Traders in 1971 at the age of 15. His job involved stripping down and cleaning scrap metal that was bought in. Most of the scrap metal was pipework, boilers or girders, often lagged with asbestos.  The asbestos lagging had to be removed so the metal could be cleaned.  The lagging was often in poor condition and would crumble as it was removed, releasing lots of dust.

Mr H also worked alongside others carrying out the same task, so the environment was very dusty. He explained how, during the summer months when there was no wind or rain, the dust would settle on the floor, where it would remain for days. His clothes and hair would be covered in dust and there were no washing facilities.  He was never provided with any breathing protection.

Settlement was negotiated for a sum in excess of £45,000. The claim was settled on a provisional damages basis so Mr H has the right to re-open his case should his symptoms progress or if he was sadly to develop a further asbestos related disease in the future.