Our client is a retired builder’s labourer who came to Australia in the 1970s. On arrival, he secured employment in the building industry where he spent the next fifteen years working on the construction of kitchens and bathrooms in high rise residential buildings.
This work brought him into contact with compressed asbestos sheeting. As a labourer, he would unload the sheets off trucks, carry the asbestos sheeting, he would assist in the sawing of the sheets and he would clean up the off-cuts at the end of the day. During all of these operations, he would be breathing the dust off the asbestos sheets. At no time did his employer warn him about the dangers of inhaling asbestos dust and particles. The manufacturers of the asbestos sheets knew of the dangers of breathing in these particles but no warnings were placed on the sheets.
Eventually our client moved on from his labouring work and his exposure to the asbestos particles to other work in the construction industry where there was no exposure.
After ceasing work in the 90s, our client looked forward to enjoying his retirement years with his wife, children and grandchildren. He kept fit and got a little job doing part time handyman work.
“Life was good”.
About a year ago, he developed pain in his chest. Numerous tests and scans followed. Eventually he was diagnosed with MESOTHELIOMA. He has developed a cough, finds that he can’t sleep, gets night sweats and finds every day a struggle.
Concerned for the welfare of his wife and family, he turned to Ivan Simic, Partner here at Taylor & Scott and an Accredited Specialist in Personal Injury and an expert in mesothelioma claims, for advice and help.
Ivan visited his client on numerous occasions piecing together his work history and eventually advised his client that his asbestos exposure arose out of his work as a labourer working with compressed asbestos sheeting. Ivan brought a claim in the Dust Diseases Tribunal seeking damages on behalf of his client.
Evidence in respect to the exposure was gathered as well as evidence from his client’s doctors in respect to his condition. Eventually the matter was listed for a hearing in the Tribunal. Prior to the commencement of the hearing, Ivan was able to negotiate a substantial settlement on behalf of his client.
His client was greatly relieved knowing that whatever happened, he had secured a large settlement ensuring the financial wellbeing of his family.
If you or someone you know develops any type of asbestos dust related medical condition, it is imperative to obtain expert legal advice. Contact Ivan Simic at Taylor & Scott on 1800 600 664 or by completing the contact form on this page.
All cases dealt with by Ivan and his dust team are done on a no-win/no-pay basis meaning you don’t pay any costs whatsoever unless Taylor & Scott succeed with your claim. If you are unwell, Ivan will visit you at your home, hospital or other suitable venue.
At Taylor & Scott, “We Care For You”.
