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News Desk | News Story
12th February 2009
Pipefitter’s claim leads to discovery of asbestosis
Exposed to asbestos as a pipe fitter
A member of the trade union, Unite, who suffers from a lung condition following exposure to asbestos has been compensated by his former employers.Arthur Parr, 80, from Liverpool has received a substantial five figure sum in provisional damages after he developed asbestosis caused by exposure to asbestos dust while working as a pipe fitter for five different companies.
Mr Parr worked on the construction of oil refineries and power stations from the 1950s to 1980s for Shell UK, Simons & Hawker Limited, George Wimpey, Stewart & LLoyds and W J Fraser.
He was exposed to asbestos on a daily basis without any protection or warning about the risks.
Pleural Plaques and Asbestosis
Mr Parr, who has five children, eight grandchildren and a great grandchild, was first diagnosed with pleural plaques, scarring of the lungs caused by asbestos. Following the diagnosis he contacted his union, Unite, to enquire about claiming compensation. His union instructed Thompsons Solicitors to advise him. Thompsons arranged for Mr Parr to be examined by a medical expert who reported that he also suffered from asbestosis.
He said enquiring about compensation for pleural plaques led him to discover more about his condition.
He said: “Thompsons arranged for me to be medically examined by a consultant so they could investigate my claim. I already knew I had pleural plaques. But as a result of the examination I was also diagnosed with asbestosis which was the cause of my breathing problems.”
Kevin Coyne, Unite North West Regional Secretary at Unite said: “Sadly many of our members have been exposed to asbestos while at work. The Union’s free legal services helps many members bring successful claims for compensation. I’m glad that with the union’s help Mr Parr has been compensated for the injury he suffered due to his former employers’ negligence.”
Diana Fos from Thompsons Solicitors, said: “I am pleased we have been able to reach a successful conclusion for Mr Parr. Asbestosis is a disabling condition, which has a detrimental effect on quality of life.
“Mr Parr sensibly opted for a provisional damages settlement which will allow him to claim further compensation if his health deteriorates or he develops any potentially fatal asbestos related disease at any time in the future.”
Compensation Claim Advice
If you or someone you know has developed an asbestos related illness, telephone us now for accurate compensation claim advice.
There are strict time limits in place to make any personal injury claim. For further information, contact us or visit our Questions Answered page.
Thompsons Solicitors are experts in all personal injury matters. We will be able to advise you whether or not you have a valid claim for compensation. Our specialist personal injury lawyers will be happy to talk you through the process of making a claim in plain English and will be happy to answer any questions or queries you may have. If you do have a valid personal injury compensation claim and you decide to instruct Thompsons Solicitors to deal with the matter for you, we will recover our legal fees from the person responsible for your injury, ensuring that the entire procedure is cost-free for you. Telephone us now on 08000 224 224 or complete one of our online personal injury compensation claim forms.

