The HSE has identified silica as the greatest risk to construction workers after asbestos. Despite not only the risks of respiratory crystalline silica being well known, but also clear evidence that it is attributable to hundreds of deaths per year in the UK, to date, there has not been the level of litigation that may be suspected given the size of the problem.
Recently the work of the HSE, the All Party Parliamentary Group on Respiratory Health, combined with increasing litigation in the USA and Australia has shone a light again on the problems caused by respiratory silica. With increasing publicity and awareness, for both individuals and medical professionals, there is forecast to be an increase in litigation.
This book is a practical guide for both Claimant and Defendant lawyers involved in this litigation; covering all stages of the litigation process, including the historical knowledge of the problems caused by silica, injuries attributable to silica and how these claims can be brought.
