If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an industrial disease, such as mesothelioma, our industrial disease solicitors are experts in seeking compensation on your behalf. We are here to advise and support you and your family throughout the industrial disease claims process and beyond.
Our team of legal experts have a wealth of experience and expertise across a wide range of industrial disease claims and are considered leaders in the field.
Industrial disease and illness claims are a specialised area of law, so it is crucial to have a solicitor with expert knowledge to ensure a successful claim. Our skilled solicitors are here to provide support and guidance throughout the entire process, and we have a reputation for excellence and have achieved numerous accolades in the legal industry for our work on behalf of individuals and families affected by workplace illnesses.
If you’re suffering and want to find out more about making an industrial disease claim, speak to our experts today on 0330 041 5869 or contact us online for industry-leading legal support.
What is an industrial disease?
Industrial disease is a term used to describe any long‑term illness or health condition caused by unsafe or unhealthy working conditions. These conditions usually develop slowly, often after months or years of exposure to harmful substances or environments. Many people do not realise their symptoms are work‑related until much later, which can make the experience stressful and confusing.
Employers in the UK have a legal duty under the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 to keep workers safe by assessing risks, providing proper equipment, and preventing exposure to dangerous substances wherever possible. When these duties are not followed, the consequences can affect every part of a person’s life.
An industrial disease claim helps you seek justice and the compensation you need to move forward. At Slater and Gordon, our role is to guide you through this with clarity and confidence, making sure you understand your rights and the options available.
What types of industrial disease can I make a claim for?
Asbestos-related compensation claims: Including asbestosis and pleural thickening claims, both lung conditions caused by exposure to asbestos fibres, commonly found in construction, shipbuilding, and insulation industries.
Mesothelioma compensation claims: A form of cancer caused by breathing in asbestos dust. The average time for mesothelioma to develop after exposure to asbestos dust is around 40 years, but it can develop after 10 years from the initial exposure.
Silicosis claims: A lung disease caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust, common in industries such sandblasting, stone masonry, construction, demolition, ceramics, and glass making. Prolonged exposure can cause inflammation and scarring of lung tissue, leading to breathing difficulties and an increased risk of lung infections.
Workplace stress claims: Severe stress can have a significant impact on both your mental and physical health, and your employer has a duty of care to consider the effect of stress in the workplace.
Industrial deafness claims: Also known as noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL), exposure to excessive or unsafe levels of noise at work without adequate protection can cause temporary or permanent damage to hearing, tinnitus or acoustic shock
How can I be sure my illness was caused by my work?
It is completely understandable if you aren’t sure if your illness is linked to your employment. Many industrial diseases, including asbestos‑related conditions, hearing loss and certain respiratory diseases, can take years to appear.
Our specialist industrial disease lawyers work with medical experts who review your symptoms, medical history and work environment. They will then determine whether your illness is more likely than not to have been caused by exposure at work. Evidence commonly includes occupational health records, witness statements from former colleagues and industry guidelines that show what safety measures should have been in place at the time.
If you believe your illness could have been caused by your work, our leading industrial disease solicitors are here to support you.
Being told he only had one year to live was harrowing, but Sam Ingram is still living his life as best as he can with a mesothelioma diagnosis. Here Sam shares his story, showing how he lives with the disease and how he remains positive.
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We would highly recommend Slater and Gordon solicitors especially Pauline Chandler and her team. After my husband was diagnosed with mesothelioma Pauline and her team took over his claim for compensation.
They dealt with us with compassion and empathy at a very difficult time. Nothing was too much trouble and any emails or phone calls were dealt with promptly, from start to finish they kept us informed. The outcome was beyond our expectations and was proof of the hard work that had been put in.
Client testimonial (for Pauline Chandler)
I would highly recommend Slater & Gordon Lawyers and especially John Browne. My Dad become ill with mesothelioma in 2020 and sadly died in September 2020. This case was a complicated one and John dealt with the various problems with speed and efficiency, explaining everything to me in detail. I shall always remember his kindness and empathy and the way he guided me through that terrible time with such compassion resulting in a substantial settlement for my Mum.
Client testimonial (for John Browne)
Contact one of our industrial disease experts today
What compensation can I receive from an industrial illness claim?
As each industrial disease claim is unique and will vary in severity, it’s difficult to estimate how much compensation you could be entitled to without first reviewing the circumstances of your case.
Our industrial disease solicitors work closely with medical experts to understand the long‑term effects of your condition and build a clear and accurate picture of what you need. This ensures your industrial disease compensation claim reflects both your immediate circumstances and your long‑term wellbeing.
Compensation can cover pain, suffering and the wider impact of the condition, including long‑term symptoms, reduced quality of life and the emotional strain caused by the illness. It can also cover loss of past earnings if your condition caused you to take time off work, and loss of future earnings if you are no longer able to work in the same way. You may also receive compensation for the cost of care, home adaptations, medical treatment, travel expenses and specialist equipment.
How do I make a claim for industrial disease?
Making an industrial disease claim can be a complex process, so it is important that you speak to an experienced industrial disease solicitor to understand your legal position. Our experts will be with you throughout the process, managing each step on your behalf so that you can focus on your health and wellbeing.
To make an industrial disease claim:
Speak to our industry-leading asbestos solicitors to start your claim; call us on 0330 041 5869 or contact us online for a no-obligation discussion with our experts today
We’ll discuss your work history to determine how and where your illness is likely to have occurred. Even if your employer is no longer in business, you could still make a claim.
We will also evaluate the needs of you and your family, how your illness has affected your life and arrange for a medical expert to conduct an independent medical assessment
Assessing the evidence of your case, we’ll determine how much compensation you could be entitled to, as well as securing access to any rehabilitation or treatment you may need
Your industrial disease solicitor will keep you informed at every step, working hard to secure the maximum possible compensation for you and your family
Is there a time limit for filing an industrial disease claim?
One of the most common concerns is whether it is still possible to bring an industrial illness claim, especially when symptoms appear decades after exposure. UK law recognises the delayed nature of these conditions, and the time limit reflects this.
Under the Limitation Act 1980, you generally have three years to start an industrial disease compensation claim. However, this three‑year period does not begin from the date the exposure happened. Instead, it usually starts from the date you first realised your illness may be linked to your work. This is often called the “date of knowledge”, and it frequently coincides with a medical diagnosis.
At Slater and Gordon, our roots are deeply ingrained in this field, having initially established ourselves as a specialist industrial disease law firm and growing into an award-winning, multi-service provider.
Our experienced industrial disease lawyers have received high rankings from reputable independent legal guides, such as Chambers and Partners and the Legal 500
Many of our legal experts hold positions within the Association of Personal Injury Lawyers (APIL), including senior litigator and brain injury specialist
We’re accredited by The Law Society's Lexcel program, recognising that we adhere to the highest standards of professionalism and ensure our clients benefit from our expertise.
One of our greatest strengths lies in the access to archives of past cases spanning over 40 years. By reaching out to them for a statement in support of your claim, we can expedite the settlement of your claim, ensuring a quicker resolution to your case.
Our dedicated team offers the convenience of home visits for those who have developed asbestos-related conditions and other serious industrial diseases, including occupational cancers and life-limiting respiratory illnesses.
We are proud to partner with numerous asbestos charities, organisations and support groups across the UK and undertake fundraising efforts throughout the year to help support victims, and families, living with an asbestos-related illness.
We understand the importance of providing support during challenging times, and our dedicated team will visit you at a time that is convenient for you. We can often arrange a visit within just a few days of your initial inquiry.
I highly recommend Jordan Bell and his team. They dealt with our claim for mesothelioma compensation with expertise and care.
Client testimonial for Jordan Bell
At a time when my emotions were high and my future seemed uncertain I contacted Jordan Bell at Slater & Gordon regarding my claim against a previous employer for health problems due to asbestos exposure. The future looked bleak. However Jordan handled my claim with the utmost professionalism.
Client testimonial for Jordan Bell
I contacted S&G after my lung mesothelioma industrial disease was diagnosed. All dealings were professional with a client focus.
Client testimonial for Natasha Orr
Why choose Slater and Gordon for industrial disease claims?
Expertise
We are an award-winning law firm and have a dedicated team of industrial disease solicitors to advise and guide you – no matter how complex your situation may be.
Affordability and advice
We're able to offer affordable expert legal advice and can provide guidance on all aspects of asbestos claims. Our Initial Consultation provides tailored advice on your situation giving you clear guidance and options regarding next steps.
Tailored advice
We understand that every industrial illness claim is different – so we are able to provide tailored advice and guidance to suit your individual needs.
Local access
We are a national law firm, with legal experts available locally across the UK. Meetings can be arranged via telephone or video call, to suit your requirements.
Speak to one of our industrial disease claims experts today
Frequently asked questions about industrial disease claims
What are examples of industrial diseases?
Industrial diseases cover a wide range of conditions caused by unsafe working environments. Common examples include:
Asbestos‑related illnesses such as mesothelioma, asbestosis and pleural thickening
Occupational deafness caused by prolonged exposure to loud noise
Respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD or silicosis from dust or chemical inhalation
Skin conditions like dermatitis caused by harmful substances
Hand‑arm vibration syndrome from using vibrating tools
If your illness can be linked to workplace exposure, you may be able to pursue industrial disease compensation.
Am I eligible to make an industrial illness claim?
To be eligible to make an industrial disease claim, you will need to be able to prove that your employer breached their duty of care to you and subsequently caused your illness. We can help you collect the evidence that you will need, including investigating your previous employer and arranging an independent medical examination.
If you believe your illness was caused by your employer’s negligence, get in touch with our specialist industrial disease solicitors today on 0330 041 5869 or online to find out how we can help you.
What is the Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB)?
Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB) is a tax-free, non-means-tested benefit designed to support those who have experienced disabilities due to employer negligence. This benefit is not dependent on previous contributions and is available to eligible employees or those participating in an approved employment training program at the time of the injury.
Can I make a claim on behalf of a deceased family member?
Sadly, some industrial diseases progress rapidly or are only diagnosed at a late stage, particularly conditions linked to asbestos exposure such as mesothelioma. If a loved one has passed away from an industrial illness, you may still be able to bring a claim on their behalf.
The time limit rules still apply, but the three‑year period normally begins from the date of death or the date the family first realised the illness was work‑related, whichever is later. If you are unsure where you stand, we can guide you through this sensitively and clearly. Slater and Gordon has acted for many families in these circumstances, and we understand the emotional weight of taking steps like these after a loss. Our approach is compassionate, practical and focused on securing answers as well as financial support.
Can I still claim if I don't work for my employer anymore?
Yes, you can still make an industrial disease claim even if you left the job many years ago. Claims are generally made against the employer’s insurer, not the business itself. Insurers are required to retain historic cover, and solicitors experienced in industrial illness claims can trace these insurers even when records are decades old.
Can I claim if my employer is no longer in business?
Even if the company that caused your industrial disease is no longer trading, you can still make an industrial disease claim. We will research and find which insurers provided employers' liability insurance to the company at the time you worked there and we will deal with the insurance company directly.
Can my employer dismiss me if I make a claim against them?
No. It is unlawful for an employer to dismiss or punish you for exercising your right to pursue industrial disease compensation. Under the Employment Rights Act 1996, dismissals that take place because you brought a claim may amount to unfair dismissal.
Making a claim does not mean your employer is being accused of intentional wrongdoing; it simply involves their insurer assessing liability and paying compensation where appropriate.
Will I need to go to court for my industrial disease claim?
The vast majority of industrial illness claims are settled long before it gets to courts as it is in the interest of both parties to settle the matter quickly to avoid additional time and costs. In rare cases, a claim may proceed to the court; if this does happen, your solicitor will be on hand to support and advise you at each step.
How long does it take to resolve an industrial disease claim?
The length of an industrial illness claim can vary significantly depending on various factors, including the complexity of the claim, the availability of evidence, and the cooperation of those involved. Some claims can take between 12-18 months, while others can take several years to reach a settlement.
Our team will keep you updated as your claim progresses. No matter the situation, we will be by your side, working tirelessly to ensure you get the medical treatment and compensation you deserve.
When will I receive my compensation?
The time it takes to receive industrial disease compensation varies. Straightforward cases can resolve within several months, while complex claims – especially those involving medical investigations or multiple employers – may take longer. Your solicitor may be able to secure interim payments if the other side admits responsibility early. These payments can help cover treatment costs, lost earnings or adjustments to your home while your claim continues.
Once a settlement is reached, compensation is usually paid within a few weeks, either directly to you or through your solicitor.
How can I prove I was exposed to harmful substances many years ago?
Most industrial disease claims are pursued against previous employers years or even decades after the exposure to harmful substances occurred. Our experienced industrial disease solicitors often investigate historical working practices and safety standards. They may gather evidence such as:
Employment and tax records confirming where you worked
Witness accounts from former colleagues
Industry‑specific documents showing what protective measures should have been used
Medical reports that link your symptoms to typical patterns of industrial exposure
It is also important to remember that the courts understand that records may be incomplete, especially where exposure happened in the 1960s, 70s or 80s. In these cases, claims often succeed based on medical evidence and consistent witness statements.
If you’re concerned about proving your illness was caused by harmful exposure at work, talk to our team of experienced industrial illness lawyers on 0330 041 5869. Alternatively, you can request a call back at a time that suits you using our online form.
Can you help me make an industrial disease claim if I developed an illness working in Scotland?
Yes. Industrial disease claims relating to work carried out in Scotland follow Scottish legal procedures and limitation rules, which differ from those in England and Wales. A solicitor with experience in both jurisdictions can ensure the claim is handled correctly, gather evidence from Scottish employers and advise you on time limits under the Prescription and Limitation (Scotland) Act 1973.
At Slater and Gordon, our leading industrial disease solicitors are based across the UK, including our Edinburgh office, where our Scottish industrial disease team are based. Speak to us today to establish your full legal possible – you can call us on 0330 041 5869 or get in touch online to request a call back at a time that suits you.
Is it free to make an industrial disease claim or will I have to pay?
At Slater and Gordon, the industrial disease claims we pursue are funded by No Win No Fee agreements. This means you do not pay anything upfront, and you only pay a fee if your claim is successful. This allows you access to our expert industrial disease solicitors without financial risk. Your solicitor will explain the agreement clearly before your claim begins so you understand exactly how costs work.
You can learn more about making a No Win No Fee claim here. Alternatively, speak to our industrial disease experts on 0330 041 5869 or get in touch online.
I highly recommend Jordan Bell and his team. They dealt with our claim for mesothelioma compensation with expertise and care. Client testimonial for Jordan Bell
At a time when my emotions were high and my future seemed uncertain I contacted Jordan Bell at Slater & Gordon regarding my claim against a previous employer for health problems due to asbestos exposure. The future looked bleak. However Jordan handled my claim with the utmost professionalism. Client testimonial for Jordan Bell
I contacted S&G after my lung mesothelioma industrial disease was diagnosed. All dealings were professional with a client focus. Client testimonial for Natasha Orr