An expert in occupational diseases has accused the offshore industry of ‘playing Russian roulette with workers lives,’ after a leading firm admitted placing workers at risk of exposure to radiation.

Solicitor Chris Gordon of Thompsons Solicitors who represents many offshore workers said: “Exposing workers to radiation is like playing Russian roulette with their lives.

“Sometimes there is no impact on an exposed person’s health.

“On other occasions the consequences can be serious with the risk of damage to the intestines and the heart as well as a significant risk of cancer.

“Employers who fail to follow the strict safety guidelines relating to radioactive material are simply playing with peoples lives, especially if they don’t ensure anyone involved is suitably shielded.”

Mr Gordon was speaking after Schlumberger Oilfield UK was fined £300,000 at Aberdeen Sheriff Court.

The Company admitted breaching health and safety laws on a rig during a drill programme in 2008 by leaving radioactive material lying on the drill floor for about four hours, during which time 14 workers were placed at risk of exposure.

The Court heard that anyone handling the material even for only a few minutes would have suffered serious injuries to their hands and would be at risk of developing cancer in later life.

If you or a member of your family’s health has suffered through exposure to harmful substances such as radioactive material or asbestos, call Thompsons accident compensation lawyers on 0800 0891 331 or text CLAIM to 78866 for no win no fee advice from our lawyers.