Workers who attended bomb scene in 1984 could be at risk of asbestos-related disease
Emergency workers who helped salvage Brighton’s Grand Hotel in the aftermath of the IRA bombing in 1984 could have been exposed to asbestos, says Sussex Police.
The announcement follows the death of a police officer who developed an asbestos-related disease thirty years after being exposed to asbestos dust at the scene of the bombing.
Sussex Police assistant chief constable, Steve Barry, said that emergency workers were at a small risk of exposure to asbestos dust while working amongst the hotel debris without any adequate protection.
The force is now working to identify those who attended the scene and to offer reassurance and health information. Letters to Sussex University Hospitals NHS Trust, local councils and businesses have also been issued.
Asbestos exposure can lead to lung diseases including mesothelioma, pleural thickening and lung cancer.
Ian McFall, head of asbestos litigation at Thompsons Solicitors, said: “Asbestos was banned from use in the 1990s, yet it continues to present a major public health risk to this day.
“The symptoms of asbestos disease can take decades to develop. It is relevant and timely for those who attended the scene as rescuers and emergency service workers some thirty years ago, to consider the information released by Sussex Police.
“We are dedicated to providing legal representation and support to asbestos victims and their families. Anyone who has been diagnosed with asbestos disease should seek expert legal advice without delay."
Asbestos disease diagnosis? Talk to us for advice and support on how to secure compensation.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, we can support you with advice on how to make a claim.
The process will be explained in plain English and with no obligation – our priority is to provide you with the best, expert advice on whether you have a valid case for compensation, and to signpost you to further sources of support.
There are strict time limits applied to making a claim – usually three years from the date of diagnosis. It doesn’t matter if the exposure to asbestos took place – as it often does – decades ago, the three year time limit applies to the date of knowledge of diagnosis or date of death.
For further information, visit our How to Make A Compensation Claim page.
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