A man who was exposed to asbestos while working as a process worker for Imperial Chemical Industries at their plant in Clitheroe, Lancashire, in the 1960s and early 1970s, received compensation following his diagnosis with the asbestos-related cancer, mesothelioma.

In the early 1960s and then again in the late 1960s to early 1970s, Harry worked as a process worker at Imperial Chemical Industries (ICI)'s former plant in Clitheroe, before he emigrated to Australia in 1971.

Harry's main job was to mix chemicals and make catalysts in the form of pellets and tablets which were used to break down oils, which in turn were used to manufacture plastics. In addition to this, Harry was required to assist with the cleaning in the plant and reports that he regularly swept up in the close vicinity of laggers who were removing and replacing asbestos lagging on the pipes. He also reported assisting the fitters during shutdowns by changing valves on the asbestos-lagged pipes.

Harry believes that he was not given any protective clothing or respiratory equipment and he was given no warnings about the dangers of asbestos.

Almost 50 years later, and after he had emigrated to Australia, Harry was diagnosed with mesothelioma, a cancer of the lining of the lungs, the main cause of which is asbestos exposure.

He instructed asbestos claims solicitor at Leigh Day, Vijay Ganapathy, shortly after his diagnosis.

ICI accepted liability and a settlement of £140,000 was agreed. In addition, ICI agreed to pay the costs of Harry's potential future medical treatment including immunotherapy. The order agreed also meant that his treatment would not be limited to Australia should suitable treatment be available elsewhere.

Harry used some of the settlement money for care at a private care facility for pain management, before his death in May 2020.

Vijay Ganapathy said:

"This case highlights the widespread use of asbestos. Many sufferers are unaware they were exposed to it and so, when they are diagnosed with an asbestos related disease, it comes as an immense shock to them and their family.

"Whilst this will never make up for his diagnosis, Harry had been given peace of mind knowing that his former employer had accepted liability for exposing him to this deadly material and that his future treatment costs were covered."

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