Different Types of Asbestos

In the UK a distinction is made between the different types of asbestos from a safety point of view and it classifies three main types of asbestos, white, brown and blue. We are one of the only countries to make such a disctinction between different types of asbestos, with most countries accepting that all asbestos can be deadly. Blue and brown asbestos are considered to be the most dangerous forms of asbestos whilst exposure to white asbestos is also considered dangerous. All forms of asbestos can cause the common asbestos-related conditions of asbestosis, mesothelioma, lung cancer and pleural thickening and can claim lives as a result.

When Britain became an industrialised nation, asbestos was the first choice for insulating the new buildings which were springing up across the country. Unlike today, health and safety aspects were simply ignored and workers would regularly be exposed to asbestos dust and fibres either directly in the application of this or indirectly as others worked with asbestos around them. Health concerns were first raised in relation to the harmful effects of asbestos around 1900 but the dangers were largely brushed under the carpet and ignored.

Realising the Dangers of Asbestos

It wasn't until the 1970s that the dangers of asbestos became widely recognised and action to prevent exposure to the fibres commenced. Workers in a wide range of trades were exposed to asbestos fibres and current figures suggest that between 3,500 and 5,000 people die in Britain each year from asbestos-related conditions. Many thousands of others have serious health problems. People are often surprised to learn that anything up to approximately 60 years can pass between breathing in asbestos and developing problems. Claims for compensation arising out of exposure to asbestos can therefore occur many years after the exposure took place.

We have worked with people from a wide range of industries to help them claim compensation in sectors such as the power industry.

Illnesses Resulting from Exposure to Asbestos

Exposure to asbestos can be the cause of a range of illnesses including asbestosis, mesothelioma, pleural thickening and lung cancer which can range from mild in severity to life-threatening. Victims of asbestos exposure may be entitled to substantial damages and we have helped many workers to recover large sums of money to compensate them for their health problems arising from their exposure to asbestos.

We are justifiably proud of our work helping victims of asbestos diseases. As experts, we can give focussed and practical advice for sufferers displaying the symptoms of asbestos exposure which can have a significant effect on the lives of sufferers. We are happy to deal with any general enquiries which you may have in relation to asbestos-related problems. Our service to you is totally free.