Silicosis compensation claims In Brisbane, Gold Coast, QLD
Workers in the stone bench top industry are facing the worst epidemic since the dangers of asbestos were exposed. An increasing number have reported symptoms including:
- Chest pain
- Coughing
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
Class action is being taken as many workers have now sought medical treatment, only to be told the devastating news that they are suffering from symptoms of silicosis.
If you have been affected by this chronic illness, the Personal Injury Lawyers are here to assist you to get a silicosis payout. We do it with a no win no fee guarantee.
No win no fee guaranteed, plus it pays for your injury expenses
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What is Silicosis?
Silicosis is generally a work-related lung disease that is caused by exposure to, and the inhaling of, crystalline silica (also often called quartz). This crystal compound is released in the process of dry cutting, grinding, sanding, polishing and installation of engineered stone bench tops most commonly used in modern kitchens.
Different types of stone have differing levels of crystalline silica. For example, granite may only contain 25% crystalline silica, whereas modern engineered or manufactured artificial stone may contain up to 90%.
Industries where workers may be at risk of exposure to silica dust include:
- Mining
- Construction work
- Engineering
- Stonemasonry
Australians have seen the devastation this work-related lung disease has caused miners across the world over the past 20 years. Some other countries don’t have the legal clout to gain a silicosis payout for affected workers. In 2020, it has resulted in more than half a million former gold miners in South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho, Botswana and Mozambique suffering from lung cancer and lethal silicosis symptoms, leading to widespread deaths.
What are the symptoms of Silicosis?
The uncontrolled dry cutting, grinding or polishing of stone is the main cause, which is prohibited in Queensland workplaces. However, companies who are negligent may continue to run the risk of exposing workers to silica dust particles.
Common silicosis signs and symptoms include:
- A shortness of breath that gets noticeably worse with any exertion
- A persistent cough
- General fatigue
- Rapid breathing
- A loss of appetite and weight loss
- Chest pain
- Fever
- Gradual darkening of skin (blue skin)
Crystalline silica exposure can cause numerous health complications. Most commonly, lung cancer, kidney damage, emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Studies suggest it may also contribute to renal cancer. Chronic silicosis symptoms may lead to the need of a lung transplant, or worse, it is known to be fatal.
The risk of developing lung damage increases the longer you are exposed to silica dust, however the symptoms of silicosis can develop or progress even long after exposure to the substance has stopped.
Even acute silicosis symptoms can have a devastating impact on the victim’s quality of life. It is important for anyone who has potentially been exposed to this work-related lung disease to seek medical attention and contact a compensation lawyer about making a silicosis claim. The Personal Injury Lawyers understand the pain and suffering people with silicosis have to endure and we’ll fight to get you the highest possible silicosis payout.
What type of compensation is available for Silicosis?
WorkCover Queensland has been offering initial health screenings since September 2018. If you are diagnosed with silicosis, WorkCover can assist to fund some supportive treatment and payment of weekly benefits.
However, the larger impact can be devastating on those affected, their families and finances. Compensation is available for anyone affected by this work-related lung disease. A silicosis payout can help to cover the cost of your ongoing medical care and support your family.
Silicosis payouts in Australia range from $500,000 to as much as $2,000,000 depending on the type of silicosis disease you have been diagnosed with. The most severe cases of incurable lung damage will be awarded the highest compensation.
What are the Queensland Silicosis compensation claim time limits?
How can the threat of Silicosis be reduced or removed?
Workplace Health & Safety Queensland has called for immediate action by all employers in the bench top industry to prevent further exposure.
Helpful measures introduced to reduce the disease include:
Water suppression of the dust created
Local exhaust ventilation
Isolation of work areas
A substitution of materials
Regular health monitoring
Free health screening
Protective breathing equipment
Can I get compensation for Silicosis In Brisbane, the Gold Coast Or anywhere in Queensland?
If you, or someone you know has been exposed to crystalline silica dust, contact WorkCover Queensland as soon as possible. You must inform them of your exposure to silica as part of the process in starting your claim for a silicosis payout.
You’re welcome to email, chat or call us to discuss any concerns you may have regarding silicosis compensation. Our experienced team of personal injury lawyers can assess your compensation claim at no cost to you.
Our no win, no fee guarantee quickly pays for all outlays and any claim expenses such as medical bills.
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Frequently asked questions
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