How our asbestosis claim solicitors can help
At Coleman Legal LLP, our asbestosis claim solicitors have extensive experience advising individuals and families affected by asbestos-related diseases.
We understand that many people receive a diagnosis decades after the original exposure occurred.
In many cases, former employers may no longer be trading, records may be difficult to locate, and individuals may be unsure where the exposure took place.
Our solicitors can investigate your employment history, obtain medical evidence, identify historic employers and insurers, and advise whether you may have grounds to pursue a claim.
We have acted for clients in complex asbestos-related cases and have successfully represented individuals affected by occupational asbestos exposure.
Previous asbestos-related cases
Our team has successfully represented clients in asbestos-related litigation, including:
- A successful asbestos claim that proceeded to the Supreme Court.
- A mesothelioma compensation claim arising from occupational asbestos exposure.
These cases demonstrate our experience in handling complex occupational disease claims involving historic exposure, disputed liability, and specialist medical evidence. Read more
Why choose Coleman Legal LLP?
Our asbestosis claim solicitors can assist with:
- Investigating historic asbestos exposure
- Tracing former employers and insurers
- Obtaining respiratory and occupational health expert evidence
- Advising on limitation periods and date of knowledge issues
- Pursuing claims involving asbestosis, mesothelioma, pleural thickening, and other asbestos-related diseases
- Negotiating settlements and representing clients in court proceedings where necessary
We understand the challenges faced by individuals diagnosed with asbestos-related illnesses and provide practical legal advice tailored to the circumstances of each case.
What is Asbestosis?
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals characterised by thin microscopic fibres.
These fibres resist heat, fire, and chemicals and do not conduct electricity.
Because of these properties, asbestos was widely used in construction, manufacturing, shipbuilding, insulation, and other industries throughout much of the twentieth century.
It should be noted that asbestos and asbestos-containing products can no longer be placed on the market in Ireland under European Union legislation.
Despite this ban, asbestos remains present in many older buildings and workplaces.
Types of asbestos disease
Exposure to asbestos becomes dangerous when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed and fibres are released into the air.
Once inhaled, these fibres can become trapped in the lungs and may lead to serious illness many years later.
Common asbestos-related diseases include:
Asbestosis
A chronic lung condition that causes scarring of lung tissue, leading to breathlessness, persistent coughing, and reduced lung function.
Mesothelioma
A rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, chest cavity, or abdomen.
Pleural Plaques
Areas of fibrous thickening on the lining of the lungs or diaphragm which indicate previous asbestos exposure.
Lung Cancer
Exposure to asbestos significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer.
Other Respiratory Conditions
Asbestos exposure may also contribute to a range of other respiratory illnesses and lung disorders.
Symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of asbestosis
Asbestos-related diseases often develop many years after exposure. The average latency period is approximately 35 years, although some conditions may take 50 years or longer to appear.
Common symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent coughing
- Wheezing
- Chest tightness
- Reduced exercise tolerance
- Fatigue
Diagnosis commonly involves:
- Chest X-rays
- CT scans
- Pulmonary function testing
- Respiratory specialist assessment
Early diagnosis can assist with monitoring, treatment, and management of the condition.
Information about pleural plaques
Pleural plaques are a form of scarring affecting the outer lining of the lungs.
Although they do not generally cause symptoms, they are recognised as evidence of previous asbestos exposure.
Many individuals diagnosed with pleural plaques become concerned about the possibility of developing more serious asbestos-related diseases in the future.
What is pleural thickening?
Pleural thickening, also known as diffuse pleural thickening, can occur following asbestos exposure.
Asbestos fibres may reach the pleura, causing scarring and thickening over time. In more severe cases, pleural thickening can affect lung function and cause breathlessness.
Pleural thickening is also evidence of previous asbestos exposure and may increase the risk of developing other asbestos-related diseases.
Identifying asbestos products
Historically, asbestos was used in a wide range of products and building materials.
Examples include:
- Sprayed fireproofing materials
- Pipe and boiler insulation
- Wall and ceiling insulation
- Ceiling tiles
- Floor tiles
- Textured ceiling finishes
- Cement wall compounds
- Brake linings
- Clutch pads
If you are unsure whether a material contains asbestos, you should seek advice from a qualified asbestos consultant or licensed contractor before disturbing it.
Employer responsibilities
Under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005, employers must take reasonable steps to protect employees from foreseeable workplace risks.
This includes:
- Providing a safe place of work
- Providing safe systems of work
- Providing safe machinery and equipment
- Providing appropriate supervision and training
- Providing protective equipment where necessary
Failure to meet these obligations may give rise to an employer liability claim where asbestos exposure has occurred.
Statute of Limitations
Asbestos-related diseases often develop decades after exposure.
For occupational diseases such as asbestosis, the limitation period generally runs from the date of knowledge rather than the date of exposure.
This means the relevant time limit usually begins when a person becomes aware, or ought reasonably to have become aware, that their illness may be linked to asbestos exposure.
Our asbestosis claim solicitors can advise on whether your claim remains within time.
Frequently Asked Questions
My former employer is no longer trading. Can I still bring an asbestos claim?
Yes. Many asbestos claims proceed even where the employer responsible for the exposure no longer exists.
Historic employer liability insurance policies may still provide cover for claims arising from asbestos exposure. An experienced solicitor can investigate former insurers and advise whether a claim remains viable.
I am not sure where or how I was exposed to asbestos dust. Is there any point in contacting an asbestos solicitor in Ireland?
Yes. Many people diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases are unsure where the exposure occurred because symptoms often develop decades later.
Our asbestosis claim solicitors can investigate your employment history, obtain occupational and medical records, identify potential sources of exposure, and advise whether a claim may be available.
How is asbestosis different from mesothelioma, and does it affect my claim?
In Ireland, asbestosis and mesothelioma are distinct asbestos-related diseases.
Asbestosis is a chronic lung condition caused by scarring of lung tissue, while mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs or abdomen.
Both can give rise to compensation claims, but the medical evidence and valuation of the claim will differ.
What evidence is needed for an asbestosis claim in Ireland?
Evidence typically includes a confirmed medical diagnosis, occupational history, evidence of asbestos exposure, and expert medical reports linking the exposure to the illness.
My former employer is no longer trading. Can I still make an asbestosis claim?
Yes. Claims may often be pursued against the employer’s historic insurers even where the employer no longer exists.
Is there a time limit for making an asbestosis claim in Ireland?
Yes. However, because asbestosis is a latent occupational disease, the limitation period generally runs from the date of knowledge rather than the date of exposure.
Will I need to go to court to resolve my asbestosis claim?
Many claims settle without a court hearing. However, where liability or causation is disputed, court proceedings may be necessary.
I am not sure where I was exposed to asbestos. Can I still speak to an asbestos claim solicitor?
Yes. Many successful asbestos claims begin where the source of exposure is initially unclear. An experienced solicitor can investigate potential sources and advise on the available options.
