No-one is safe from asbestos
No-one is safe from asbestos
Over three decades of warnings from unions and campaigners that use of asbestos would lead to a disease epidemic have been proven tragically correct. The death toll is no longer dominated by asbestos workers - construction workers are now the single largest affected group. And hundreds of cases are emerging of people developing asbestos related cancer after very short or low level exposures - including the children and grandchildren (Risks 295, Risks 282) of exposed workers and, increasingly, younger people (Risks 279, Risks 287). Robert Fleming, a former headteacher from County Durham, died earlier this month from the asbestos cancer mesothelioma, after being exposed to asbestos from boiler lagging and broken cement tiles at Tudhoe Grange school. Anthony Pope, 48, a Cornish man exposed to asbestos while on a government training scheme, was diagnosed with the same condition last year. He was exposed to the dust while working for the Manpower Services Commission scheme from 1985 to 1987. His job entailed cleaning up old buildings, like village halls and churches and he was exposed to asbestos while wire brushing and repairing roofs. Mr Pope's lawyer, Julie Appleby added: 'We would urge anyone who worked with Mr Pope to get in touch with us. Their evidence is vital to help us pursue compensation on Mr Pope's behalf. He has been diagnosed with a disease, which he was exposed to through carrying out a hard day's work. It is important that justice is served and he is fully compensated.'
- Northern Echo. Thompsons Solicitors news release.
- Anyone who worked with Mr Pope or worked on the Manpower Services Commission Scheme from 1985 to 1987 should call Julie Appleby on 0191 269 0488.
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