Asbestos: Challenges today and the threat to future generations

Two charities who support victims of asbestos related disease and campaign to raise awareness of the dangers of asbestos exposure are teaming up to hold an event in Glasgow later this month.

Digby Brown are pleased to be supporting “Asbestos: Challenges today and the threat to future generations”, a one-day conference taking place at Glasgow Science Centre on Friday 21 April 2017.

The conference is organised by Clydebank Asbestos Group and Tayside-based Asbestos Action.  Digby Brown’s specialist asbestos disease solicitors work closely with both organisations, helping victims of asbestos related disease and supporting campaigning work across Scotland.

Clydebank Asbestos Group Chairman Bob Dickie explains the background to the event:

“For over 25 years our group has supported those affected by asbestos disease and their families.  These diseases can range from benign conditions such as pleural plaques to vicious fatal lung cancer.  However, despite the decline of industry and shipbuilding, the numbers of those affected are not declining. 

“We are seeing more and more cases involving people who may have been exposed to asbestos not just in heavy industry but in other industries such as construction or even as a result of general environmental exposure.  More must be done to raise awareness of the ongoing dangers of asbestos to help protect future generations.” 

Asbestos in public buildings in Scotland – including Schools

One area of particular concern is the presence of asbestos in public buildings, especially within schools.

For Bob Dickie at Clydebank Asbestos Group, this is an issue which shows the ways that individuals today can be exposed to potentially dangerous levels of asbestos:

“People will be shocked to learn of the number of public buildings in daily use which contain asbestos. 

“We firmly believe more should be done to make the public aware of the presence of asbestos in their buildings and plan for the phased and safe removal of asbestos.” 

One of the keynote speakers will be Sarah Lyons from the National Union of Teachers, and a member of the Joint Union Asbestos Group, who will give a presentation on the threat posed by asbestos in schools and the ongoing campaign in England and Wales to raise awareness of this treat.  Many believe that Scotland can learn from their example.

Making sure Scottish law helps asbestos sufferers

Digby Brown’s Asbestos Disease team, led by Fraser Simpson, have been at the forefront of making sure the law in Scotland helps people who have become ill through being exposed to asbestos, achieving two landmark decisions in Wales v The Advocate General and Harris v The Advocate General on behalf of pursuers in Scotland. 

Attending the Conference “Asbestos: Challenges today and the threat to future generations”

Attendance at this event is free and open to any interested party, subject to space and availability. 

To enquire about attending the event, please contact Clydebank Asbestos Group, telephone 0141 951 1008 or by email clydebankasbestos@ntlbusiness.com