Industrial diseases can develop over many years, often as a result of long-term exposure to harmful substances or unsafe working conditions. Unlike sudden workplace accidents, these illnesses may take decades to appear, meaning many people only discover the impact of their working environment long after the exposure occurs.
Our industrial disease case studies demonstrate how Thompsons supports workers across Scotland who have developed illnesses linked to their employment. Industrial diseases commonly arise from exposure to hazardous materials such as asbestos, chemicals, dust, or repetitive workplace tasks that cause long-term strain on the body.
These conditions can include respiratory illnesses, asbestos-related diseases, occupational asthma, hearing loss caused by prolonged exposure to noise, and repetitive strain injuries. In many cases, these illnesses significantly affect a person’s quality of life and ability to work.
The case studies featured in this category highlight how Thompsons investigates historical working conditions, identifies breaches of duty of care, and secures compensation for individuals whose health has been affected by their employment. Outcomes may include financial compensation, access to medical support, and recognition of the harm caused by unsafe working environments.
To see a wider range of outcomes achieved for injured people across Scotland, visit our main case studies page.
Industrial disease claims often involve complex investigations because the illness may have developed many years after the original exposure occurred. Establishing the link between the working environment and the illness requires detailed evidence and specialist expertise.
Thompsons has extensive experience handling industrial disease claims across Scotland. Our solicitors work closely with medical experts, occupational specialists, and investigators to build a clear picture of how the disease developed and who may be responsible.
Investigations may include:
Many industrial disease claims involve tracing employers from decades earlier, including companies that may no longer operate. Thompsons has experience identifying insurers and responsible parties even where the original employer has ceased trading.
Our aim is to ensure that clients receive fair compensation that reflects the impact of the illness on their health, financial security, and future wellbeing.
Here are some of our latest industrial disease related case studies:
Latest case studies
Hand Arm Vibration Claim Settles for £55,000
Thompsons Solicitors Scotland secured a £55,000 settlement for a rail technician who developed serious hand symptoms after prolonged exposure to vibrating tools at work. This...
£18,500 Industrial Disease Compensation for Rope Access Worker with Contact Dermatitis
Thompsons secured £18,500 in compensation for a rope access supervisor who developed allergic contact dermatitis after prolonged exposure to epoxy-based products while working...
£10,000 Compensation for NHS Worker Exposed to Hazardous Actichlor Chemical
Thompsons secured £10,000 in compensation for an NHS healthcare support worker who developed respiratory and skin symptoms after being exposed to the disinfectant Actichlor while...
Thompsons Secured £29,000 Workplace Stress Compensation for Long-Serving Fish Factory Worker
Thompsons secured £29,000 in compensation for a seafood processing worker who developed a depressive disorder after experiencing prolonged workplace stress while working at a...
Industrial diseases typically arise when workers are exposed to hazardous environments over prolonged periods without adequate protection or safety procedures.
Common causes of industrial disease claims include:
Employers have a legal duty to protect workers from these risks by providing safe working conditions, appropriate training, and protective equipment. When these responsibilities are not met, workers may develop serious illnesses many years later.
Industrial disease case studies provide real examples of how these exposures occur and how legal action can help individuals secure compensation and recognition for the harm caused.
Thompsons has represented workers across Scotland in industrial disease claims for many years, including complex cases involving historical exposure and long-term health conditions. The firm has extensive experience pursuing compensation for illnesses caused by unsafe working environments.
Our solicitors act exclusively for injured individuals and workers, ensuring that the focus remains on protecting the rights of those whose health has been affected by their employment.
The examples below demonstrate how Thompsons has helped workers across Scotland pursue compensation for illnesses linked to workplace exposure.
Each case study outlines the circumstances of the exposure, the legal issues involved, and the outcome achieved for the individual or their family.
Browse our industrial disease case studies below.
Our client, Mr Mick Stanley 53, contacted us with a view to claiming for occupational vibration injury following more than three decades of exposure to vibrating tools in various workplaces.
