Although work-related skin disease is most common among those working in heavy industry, these conditions can occur as a result of any job where skin is exposed to irritants and chemicals.
The Health and Safety Executive estimates there are 7,000 new cases of self-reported work-related skin disease each year (pdf).
Industrial skin disease arises when someone develops an often untreatable condition through working in unsafe conditions.
Exposure to excessive UV rays and chemical products such as coal tar, oil and arsenic are the main causes of industrial skin cancer. Symptoms include warts and growths, scaly red patches, tumours and scarring.
You should be able to claim compensation from the relevant employer, as they’re responsible for your safety at work. Any failure on their part to provide you with appropriate clothing, such as protective suits and gloves, will render them liable for the development of industrial skin disease.
As industrial skin disease can be severe, amounts awarded tend to be quite high. In the case of dermatitis, for example, it’s possible you could receive as much as £16,830. For any claim, the exact award depends on such things as the amount of time taken off work and the effects the condition has had on your quality of life.
You can make a claim within three years of receiving a diagnosis. This should give you plenty of time to claim whenever you’re ready, although any claims made outside of this time window will probably be knocked back.
If you’ve suffered industrial skin disease due to neglect, then you should contact us to discuss the particulars of your case. Our trained legal advisors will assess the individual circumstances of your work history and potential exposure to harmful substances. They'll then advise you whether you have a claim, and tell you about our No Win No Fee* claims.
We'll then do all the hard work in fighting for your compensation and justice, so you can focus on your recovery.
Only pay a fee if you receive compensation
Our No Win No Fee solicitors will take a success fee from the compensation you are awarded for a successful claim in the form of a percentage of your damages. This could be up to 25% but it won't be more than that, except in cases of road traffic accidents. Changing laws mean our solicitors will now take a payment of 30% of the final compensation amount plus VAT for all road traffic accident claims.
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