A man who spent over a year cutting asbestos sheets without protective gear has received a six-figure compensation. David Lawrence, diagnosed with mesothelioma, an incurable cancer, was exposed to hazardous fibres at a former builders’ merchant.
The 79-year-old from Maldon, Essex, expressed his dismay, stating, “It is wrong that our former employers knowingly put us all in danger.” His solicitor, Lorna Webster, emphasized that “no amount of compensation” could restore Mr. Lawrence’s health.
In 1961, Lawrence worked in the cutting area at John Sadd & Sons in Maldon, slicing asbestos sheeting into strips for builders to use as soffits under house guttering. His employer did not provide any protective equipment to prevent inhalation of asbestos dust.
Due to his diagnosis, Mr. Lawrence now struggles to leave his house and has had to abandon his hobbies. He remarked, “It is unfair that people who worked hard like me were put in such danger by our employers.” He urged others in similar environments to seek medical and legal help, even if their companies are no longer in business.
John Sadd & Sons, established in 1729, closed in 1994. Mr. Lawrence has received support from the London Asbestos Support Awareness Group (LASAG), though the exact compensation amount remains undisclosed.
Mesothelioma, a cancer affecting the lining of some body organs, is typically linked to asbestos exposure and is incurable, though treatments can alleviate symptoms. The insurance company responsible for the payout was contacted for comment by the BBC.