Pay-outs to Asbestos victims have seen a significant increase in the last few years, with the number of diagnosed predicted to rise.
Asbestos is a building material which was regularly used in buildings from the 1950's to the late 90's, until it was banned. It is a fibrous material found in the walls of buildings and when disturbed, it releases tiny crystals which if inhaled, can cause lethal consequences. It may cause chronic lung disease alongside various forms of cancer and killer illnesses. Not only this, but victims who may have inhaled the deadly substance, may not experience symptoms for up to 40 years.
It has been reported that in Edinburgh, Midlothian and West Lothian, large amounts of compensation have been paid out to council workers and their families due to exposure of the deadly powder. In 2014, one single claim in Edinburgh received £325,000 in compensation, which is believed to have been the biggest pay-out that has been made by a local authority.
In 2004, Edinburgh spent millions of pounds on removing asbestos from council buildings alongside schools and public buildings. However, those who have already inhaled Asbestos, are still at risk.
In the NHS Lothian, the number of people who have been diagnosed with the asbestos related cancer Mesothelioma, has doubled in the past 20 years, with experts warning that this number will rise.
The risk of inhaling Asbestos is still present all across the UK as a large percentage of buildings haven't yet been tested. Are you safe from the invisible killer?
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