Decades After Bans, Asbestos Still a Killer

30th October 2024
Category Compensation

Many Australians remain at risk of serious respiratory illnesses, like asbestosis, even decades after their exposure to asbestos. With a high likelihood of severe and even fatal outcomes, understanding your rights for compensation could be crucial. The RMB Compensation Division explains.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral found in rock formations and made up of very fine, jagged particles. It is a strong, heat-resistant material that has insulating properties.

It was mined in a number of Australian states until 1983 and was officially banned from use in building products in Australia in the early to mid-1980s. However, it was not until 31 December 2003 that it became illegal to import, store, supply, sell, install, use or re-use asbestos materials in Australia.

Before its prohibition, asbestos was used extensively in industry, equipment and building products.

Inhalation of asbestos dust and fibre can lead to a variety of diseases, but they often occur up to 40 years after the exposure.

Despite the bans, the incidence of the diseases and deaths that asbestos causes was not expected to peak until 2020. The disturbance of the fibres in building and other products through home renovations and related works is predicted to be the cause of the next generation of asbestos disease sufferers.

The circumstances in which an asbestos disease is contracted often determines the potential compensation a person is entitled to. If a person develops an asbestos-related disease due to exposure at work, he or she is entitled to lodge a claim with the Dust Diseases Board and receive medical expenses and weekly benefits.

Claims for large lump sum damages can be made in the Dust Diseases Tribunal (which . These claims are usually made against the employer’s insurance company, the manufacturers of the asbestos products and the occupier of the site at which the exposure occurred.

If the asbestos was inhaled in a non-work-related environment, such as during home renovations or because a person resided in a home with loose fill insulation, then that person is usually only able to make a claim against the manufacturer of the asbestos product.

Our specialist compensation lawyers are here to guide you through your options and help secure the support you deserve. Contact our office by phone on Freecall 1800 681 211 for a consultation, or use our 'Ask a Question' tool on our website.

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