Asbestos was frequently used in Scotland's construction industries for many decades on account of its insulating and fire resistant qualities, flexibility, durability and strength.

Common applications of asbestos in Scotland included its use in shipbuilding and pipe insulation as a fire-proof coating. It was also used in concrete, in bricks and as a durable cosmetic finish (Artex) and it is the workers who installed, managed, demolished and removed asbestos in relation to these applications who have suffered the most from asbestos-related illnesses such as mesothelioma and other asbestosis.

If you have recently been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness and are considering the possibility of making a construction worker asbestos compensation claim, call Thompsons today on 0800 0891 331.

Asbestos, everywhere in Scottish construction

While asbestos was present in literally thousands of different products, not all asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) are equally dangerous. For example, Artex and asbestos mastic are considered to be less hazardous types of asbestos product, while pipe insulation, sprayed coatings and asbestos insulating board are among the most dangerous.

Spray-on insulation asbestos

Workers who used spray-on insulation are among those who have the highest chance of developing asbestos-related illnesses. Some of the spay-on products most widely used in Scotland included Therm-O-Flake and Cafco D. These were commonly used on metal structures that were exposed to high heat and sometimes even naked flames.

Demolition and asbestos

Demolition workers in Scotland were exposed to asbestos for years and, because many buildings built in Scotland before 1999 still contain asbestos, they continue to be at risk of exposure. For example, demolition workers are often unwittingly charged with the removal of asbestos insulation board, asbestos bath panels, asbestos concrete water tanks, Artex and other asbestos-containing products.

All construction workers at risk

All of those who work in the construction industry are likely to be confronted with asbestos at some point. As such, it is vital that employers provide health and safety training, protective equipment, risk assessments and specialist support where appropriate.

Those affected who may be able to make a construction worker asbestos compensation claim include the following:

• Bricklayers
• General labourers
• Demolition and wrecking crew workers
• Clearance workers
• Roofers
• Pipefitters
• Plasterers
• Carpenters
• Insulation workers
• Tile setters

Understanding the risk

One difficulty in quantifying risk in the construction industry is that different tradespeople and construction workers often share a single site. So, even one incident of negligence could result in every worker on site suffering some degree of exposure to asbestos dust.

Claiming compensation with Thompsons?

If you or someone close to you has been affected by mesothelioma, asbestosis, pleural plaques or lung cancer while working in the construction industry, Thompsons may be able to help you make a claim for construction worker asbestos compensation.

For more information about your rights and the claims process, call us today on 0800 0891 331 for a no-obligation discussion of your case.