Asbestos compensation and white asbestos cement
White asbestos cement (sometimes called chrysotile) has proved to be controversial in recent years. For although it is undoubtedly less hazardous than blue or brown asbestos, it is still, depending on the level of exposure, a mesothelioma risk, a fact that has often been reflected in payouts of asbestos compensation for illnesses caused by the substance.
However, this fact, supported by the vast majority of serious scientists, has been questioned in recent years by a number of so-called experts.
This debate has proved particularly contentious among the UK's farming communities, where some have estimated that the white asbestos removal bill could end up costing as much as £6 billion.
This is because there are thought to be around 50,000 white asbestos cement-containing farms in the UK, and, according to some calculations, the average removal bill for each farm would be over £100,000.
The progress of a serious debate on the issue has not been helped by the groups such as the National Farmers Union receiving advice from certain scientists whose views come from the margins of the asbestos debate. One, for example, has billed himself as "the world's foremost authority on asbestos science", but has actually been exposed by both BBC's You and Yours and OFCOM as possessing false qualifications and a misleading CV.
For those in any doubt, the Collegium Ramazzini, perhaps the world's greatest authority on the issue, make the dangers clear and help explain why exposure to the substance should still be considered a factor in awards of asbestos compensation:
"All forms of asbestos cause asbestosis lung cancer and malignant mesothelioma (IPCS, 1988; Dement, Brown, Okun, 1994). Asbestos has been declared a proven human carcinogen by the U.S Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and by the International Agency for Research on Cancer of the World Health Organisation (EPA, 1986; IARC, 1987). Early indications that chrysotile might be less dangerous than other forms of asbestos have not held up (UNEP, ILO. WHO 1998). The preponderence of scientific evidence to date demonstrates that crysotile too causes cancer, including lung cancer and mesothelioma (Smith, Wright, 1996; Stayner, Dankovic, Lemen, 1996)."
Solicitors Regulation Authority governed no win, no fee asbestos specialists
Whether it was white, brown or blue asbestos, if you or a member of your family have developed an illness after exposure to the substance, you may be able to claim compensation.
The solicitors on our panel are all governed by the Solicitors Regulation Authority, a branch of the Law Society that obliges all members to observe a stringent Code of Conduct.
Over the years we have successfully represented many asbestos compensation claims, and in the process have earned a national reputation for excellence.
We represent the claimant at no cost, win or lose, ensuring you are never liable for any costs, fees or disbursements.
And, since we never take any cuts, all successful claimants receive 100 percent compensation.
We can help you establish whether you have a strong case without any obligation on your part.
Our legal advisors are available to discuss your claim and be reached either online or over the telephone.
To get in touch with us, fill out a claim form, use our echat facility, or call us today on 0800 10 757 95.
We look forward to assisting you in your search for justice.
