Painter Approaches Asbestos Experts In Fight For Justice
28/04/2011
A painter and decorator has approached asbestos experts at Irwin Mitchell after he was diagnosed with the fatal cancer mesothelioma.
Stephen Warren, 58, from Exeter, was diagnosed with the condition which is commonly caused by exposure to asbestos.
Mr Warren, who has a wife and two young children, was employed by a large painting and decorating company based in Bristol between 1968 and 1987. During that time, he worked in hospitals, banks, newly constructed council properties and private homes throughout the South West.
Before Stephen could commence painting, he would often need to prepare a work area by removing asbestos debris and dust left behind by other workers. He also regularly worked around other tradesmen who were removing and replacing asbestos.
Satpal Singh, from the Bristol office of Irwin Mitchell Solicitors, is now representing Mr Warren to help secure compensation for him and his family
“From 1898 to 1912 there were consistent references to asbestos and its injurious effects in the Annual Reports prepared and published by the Chief Inspector of Factories,” explained Mr Singh. “From the early 1900s there was an ever growing body of legislation and authoritative published guidance on the dangers of asbestos. Accordingly, by the time of Stephen’s exposure to asbestos in the 1960s, there was absolutely no excuse for failing to protect him.
“However, Stephen’s employer never warned him about these dangers or provided him with breathing equipment which could have protected him.
“As there can be a delay of 20 years or more between exposure and the onset of symptoms, many workers like Stephen are only now making the terrible discovery that their health has been affected because of exposure to asbestos.
“These workers had a basic right to go to work and earn a living without having their health put at risk.
“Although nothing can turn back the clock for Stephen, we are determined to fight for justice for him and other workers in the South West who are the innocent victims of poor workplace health and safety.”
Back to news
If you would like us to provide you with advice with regard to your potential claim, please complete our brief claim form. We will reply to your enquiry within one working day.
Fill out our quick claim form
If you would like to speak to someone directly about your claim, please call our friendly team on:
0870 024 0558