However, there are now increasing numbers of cases in which victims may have been exposed to asbestos is some other way, for example indirectly where a wife washes her husband's overalls that had asbestos on them, or by coming into contact with asbestos in a public building such as a school or hospital.

In October 2009, the courts found for the first time that a school was responsible for negligently exposing a pupil to asbestos. Dianne Willmore was exposed to asbestos in the 1970's while a pupil at Huyton Bowring School, on Merseyside, when asbestos was still widely used in buildings. 

Asbestos fibres were released into the air during school buildings works and from chipped tiles in the toilets. Dianne Willmore developed mesothelioma, a form of cancer generally caused by exposure to asbestos, in 2007.

Liverpool County Court ruled that she was entitled to compensation from Knowsley Council, which was responsible for the school, because it knew or should have known that any more than a minimal exposure to asbestos dust was a health hazard; a decision later upheld by the Court of Appeal.

There is also growing concern that people are unaware that asbestos may be present in any building built before 2000, and is believed to remain in 500,000 buildings in the UK. 

Tradesman such as electricians, plumbers and carpenters are particularly at risk from asbestos as they may find themselves working in properties where they don't know whether it is present or not.

When asbestos is disturbed or damaged, dust and fibres are released which, if inhaled, can lead to asbestos related diseases, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer and diffuse pleural thickening.

However, medical experts are of the opinion that unlike the other asbestos related conditions, mesothelioma can be caused by exposure to a single fibre.

The disease is a terminal condition, although there are some treatments for mesothelioma and surgical procedures which can increase life expectancy and provide pain relief.

Anyone who is suffering from breathing difficulties and is concerned they may have been exposed to asbestos should seek medical advice.

Tell us what you think

All documents should be read and used in accordance with the terms and conditions. This document is for your general information only and is not a detailed statement of the law. It is provided to you free of charge and should not be used as a substitute for specific legal advice. If you require specific legal advice please contact our helpline on 03700 86 86 86.

• Phone
• Online
• Post