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Personal injury, youclaim.co.uk

Industrial injury and the dangers of beryllium exposure

Beryllium, whether in the form of a metal, alloy or oxides, is a chemical popular in computer and telecommunication industries because of its low-weight composition and high strength properties. However, it is also thought that beryllium poses a cancer risk to those who have suffered exposure and should a worker develop cancer as a result of beryllium exposure it will be possible to claim industrial injury compensation.

In the light of numerous studies indicating a causal link between beryllium and lung cancer the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has taken the lead by making an official declaration substantiating that link.

However, lung cancer is not the only industrial injury caused by the substance. It is also known to cause a range of dermatological conditions such as rashes, warts and contact dermatitis, as well as lung disease and a pneumonia-like illness called Acute Beryllium Disease (ABD).

In susceptible patients, ABD frequently develops into a more acute form known as Chronic Beryllium Disease (CBD). Both these conditions are characterised by symptoms such as shortness of breath, fever, chest pain and coughing. CBD is marked by added symptoms such as weight loss, fatigue and extreme fevers.

It is estimated that more than 10 per cent of workers who suffer beryllium exposure go on to suffer some form of related illness. Those most likely to be affected include miners, engineers and telecommunications specialists.

Although most of the metal is derived from mines in the US and China, there is a risk to workers here in the UK and the Industrial Injuries Advisory Council said in 2010 that although beryllium did not yet warrant prescription it expected there to be an increase in cases and, as such, would continue to monitor development.

Claim compensation for an industrial injury
If you've suffered industrial injury as result of a sudden work accident or because of long-term exposure to a harmful substance such as beryllium or asbestos, the personal injury lawyers at YouClaim can help you secure the compensation you deserve.

With an outstanding track record of success, you can rest assured that your claim will be in safe hands and that maximum compensation will be sought for your injuries.

Our legal service is completely without charge to the claimant. This means that, win or lose, you will never have to pay a penny.

In addition, we never take a cut – our 100 per cent compensation promise.

We work to the highest professional standards and always strive to uphold the rules of the Law Society regulatory body.

If you would like to find out more about us and our service or would simply like to call to receive some obligation-free legal advice, consult an advisor by using E-chat, requesting a Call-back or calling us, on 0800 10 757 95.