Personal injury advice from
Thompsons Solicitors
Machine Operator Receives Damages in Occupational Dermatitis Claim
12th May 2009
An employee working in the component manufacturing industry developed occupational dermatitis due to his working conditions. Our lawyers, who are experts in industrial disease cases, made a personal injury claim on his behalf and he received £12,000 in compensation.
Work-Related Dermatitis
For a number of years, our client had been employed by the same company as a machine operator. In the course of his work he would come into contact with substances such as coolant, cleaning agents and hydraulic oil. Although gloves were provided, these were only suitable for some tasks. Other, more fiddly aspects of the job required him to remove the gloves and use his bare hands.
Our client had never been instructed or trained on an alternative way of working and he simply followed the known and accepted practices used by his colleagues. There was also no training given on the correct use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
He developed dermatitis on his hands, chest, back and face, which caused such symptoms as itching, heat and swelling. He is also self-conscious about the appearance of the rash.
His GP prescribed creams and he was put onto ‘dry’ work temporarily, but when he was put back onto ‘wet’ work the problem flared up again. He had to change shifts and the type of work he did and eventually decided to end his employment with the company.
Industrial Disease Claim
The claimant instructed our specialist personal injury lawyers to assist him in making a compensation claim against his former employer.
They were held responsible for his skin condition as they failed to ensure that he was not exposed to hazardous substances and did not provide sufficient training, warning or protection against the risks of contact with the coolant and other agents. The system of inspection and repair of the machines was also inadequate and this led to some of the exposure because of leaks that occurred.
We secured £12,000 compensation on the claimant’s behalf.
Injury Claim Advice
If you have suffered a personal injury or illness, whether due to an accident at work or exposure to hazardous substances, you may be entitled to make a compensation claim.
Our lawyers are experts in all areas of personal injury and industrial disease and can provide you with the specialist advice you require. Contact The Legal Line on 0800 0328511, or by completing a claim enquiry form online.
Contact us
Testimonials
"It wasn't realistic for me to work any more and the loss of my income placed an additional strain on us."
Jane Evans
Mother of Rebecca
Personal Injury News
