Dust Disease Compensation

In situations where the claim may be terminal, the claim can be fast tracked within a matter of months from start to finish.

Yes, in some circumstances a claim can still be investigated and brought if the employer is no longer in existence or if you are no longer employed by the business where you were exposed. Our dust diseases experts can provide you with advice on this matter specific to your circumstances.

In certain circumstances it may be possible to bring a claim for compensation on the behalf of dependants of people who are impacted by a dust disease. Our dust diseases experts can provide you with advice on this matter specific to your situation. Contact us today to find out more.

Yes, in certain circumstances it may be open for you to obtain compensation additional to that received from a workers compensation scheme. Our dust diseases experts can provide you with advice on this matter specific to your situation.

The majority of claims settle outside of court. If your claim does reach the point of going to court or trial, we will guide you through every step of the way to help you get the compensation you are entitled to.

Strict time limits can apply for the bringing of both statutory claims and a court claim. If you have been diagnosed with a dust disease and wish to claim compensation, it is important to seek legal advice immediately to avoid the claim falling foul of applicable time limitations.

Shine Lawyers are expert dust disease lawyers that can advise you on your rights, and help you bring about a claim for compensation. Click on the links below for further information about us.

Why you should choose Shine Lawyers

Hear from some of our clients

History of Shine Lawyers

The Shine Lawyers team

Shine Lawyers also have accredited specialists in personal injury law across the nation.

Where you are located isn’t necessarily a barrier when it comes to obtaining the services of a Dust Disease lawyer. It doesn’t matter if you are located close or far away from a Shine Lawyers office – as part of our service offering we offer home visits or hospital appointments at your convenience.

Our offices are located in the following locations:

Asbestos related pleural disease is most commonly known as being asbestos related pleural effusion. It is a non-malignant disease which is caused by inhaling asbestos fibres and dust that scar the pleura. Symptom may include, but are not limited to, shortness of breath and discomfort in the chest region. While the symptoms of asbestos pleural disease are similar to that of asbestosis, asbestos pleural disease occurs in the lining of the lungs as opposed to the lungs themselves.

Scleroderma is a group of autoimmune diseases that can either be localised to skin or involve other internal organs along with the skin. These diseases may result in changes to the skin, blood vessels, muscles and internal organs. Symptoms may include but are not limited to: thickened skin, exhaustion, stiffness and extremely poor circulation to the fingers and toes with exposure to the cold.

There has been medical literature in existence for decades which confirms a connection between scleroderma and silica dust exposure in many industries including mining, sand blasting and stone cutting occupations.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is another autoimmune disorder that can be caused by exposure to silica dust. The disease typically affects ones joints and is more common in middle-aged men and women. There have been reports over the years of the hazards of silica dust and how it may trigger not only respiratory diseases but also autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Occupational asthma is asthma that is either caused by, or worsened by, the workplace environment. Most commonly it is due to some sort of exposure to substances that may cause an allergic reaction, an irritant reaction or a reaction which may result in naturally occurring chemicals, such as histamines, building up in the lungs which results in an asthma attack.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning speaks for itself. It is poisoning that occurs when one has inhaled too much carbon monoxide, which can be found in oils and fuels. When one is exposed to this type of poisoning, symptoms have been described to that of having the flu (headaches, dizziness, weakness, vomiting, chest pain and confusion). Additionally, respiratory problems are linked to such exposure. There are many ways one can be subjected to such poisoning, from working in petroleum fuel based industries, house fires and working with gas-powered tools such as concrete cutting saws and poorly maintained vehicles without proper safety equipment or ventilation. Prolonged exposure to Carbon Monoxide can increase the risk of heart disease and lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome.

Those exposed to the cutting and milling of timber may develop ill health including diseases and conditions such as respiratory allergic reaction, non-allergic respiratory reaction (mucosal) and carcinogenicity, namely certain types of cancer including nasal cancers such as nasal adenocarcinoma. Some symptoms of nasal adenocarcinoma are blocked sinuses that do not clear, headaches or pain in the sinus area, nosebleeds, with a lump on the inside of the nose or on the face and swelling of the eyes. Those most at risk are tradespersons such as carpenters and those that work with timber production.

Benzene Poisoning occurs when one swallows, inhales or touches benzene, which is a clear petroleum-based chemical that can be found in gasoline and diesel fuel, many industrial solvents and in various paints, lacquers and varnish removers. Symptoms can be, but are not limited to, blurred vision, irregular heartbeat, dizziness, exhaustion and tightness in the chest. There has also been a link between long-term benzene exposure and types of lymphoma such as multiple myeloma, acute lymphocytic leukaemia and chronic lymphocytic leukaemia. Those mainly at risk are those that work in chemical plants, paper factories, oil refineries and those that work as painters.