Asbestos Related Claims Greater than £41 Million Since 2011

Asbestos Related Claims Greater than £41 Million Since 2011

Northern Ireland asbestos related claims exceeds £41 million since 2011.

We have discussed previously in our blog that asbestos was used in the building industry right up until it was banned in 1999. Asbestos was used due to its relatively cheap price, strength and fire-proof properties to name but a few. Some asbestos may still have been installed after this date to deplete any remaining stocks.

Asbestos is dangerous when disturbed as this can release deadly fibres which can cause cancer related illnesses including Mesothelioma.

Why are Asbestos Claims So High in Northern Ireland?

These figures certainly appear high. The majority of these claims are related to the Northern Ireland ship building industry from Harland and Wolff past employees. Claims are administered by the Department for the Economy (DFE) and the Department for Communites (DFC).

Asbestos Deaths Increase

The BBC reported that in 2020 there was a 60% increase in asbestos related deaths compared to 2019. This was a worrying statistic. Many had hoped that we had seen the peak already as most of the exposure was during the 1970s and 1990s according to the NHS.

If you would like to find out more about Harland and Wolff or the Government schemes please see the BBC article here which contains all of the relevant information and help.

Asbestos remains in thousands of properties across Northern Ireland. Never disturb material that may be asbestos. We now have the knowledge to protect from asbestos exposure. We can help with a professional asbestos survey if you are in any doubt.

Book Our Asbestos Surveyors Northern Ireland

Our team of professional asbestos surveyors can help you get an asbestos register in place so that asbestos related issues are avoided.