Men put at risk of asbestos-related illness may seek compensation

Two men whose health was jeopardised by their employer may seek compensation.

The individuals were put at risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses while relocating a junction box at a premises in Stockton on Tees in November 2008.

As part of the task, they had to drill into asbestos insulation board without taking appropriate precautions.

Recently, it was ruled that Darchem Engineering had breached safety rules in relation to the incident.

It had failed to manage the possible dangers arising from the presence of asbestos on the site and, as a result, it was issued a fine of £3,000.

Asbestos does not present a risk to health when it is in good condition but when it is damaged or disturbed it releases fibres that can cause a number of diseases.

If inhaled, they can result in conditions such as pleural plaques, asbestosis and mesothelioma and for this reason, the use of the insulating material is no longer permitted.