Claim Time Solicitors outlines the long-term effects of industrial diseases on former workers

Claim Time Solicitors, with more than two decades of experience supporting people affected by workplace and industrial injuries, is shedding light on the long-term impact of industrial diseases that can develop decades after workplace exposure, often leaving former workers unaware that their condition may be linked to past employment.

According to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), an estimated 1.9 million workers in the UK were suffering from work-related ill health in 2024/25, including both new and long-standing conditions. The HSE also estimates that around 11,000 lung disease deaths each year are linked to past exposure at work, with many cases developing long after the original exposure occurred. In addition, there are around 5,000 deaths a year from asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis, highlighting the serious and lasting consequences of historic workplace exposure.

Industrial diseases such as asbestos-related illnesses, occupational lung disease, vibration injuries, and chemical exposure conditions frequently take many years to emerge. In some cases, symptoms only appear long after a person has left the job where the exposure occurred, making it difficult for individuals to recognise the cause or understand whether they still have options.

Medical and workplace safety bodies have long acknowledged that industrial diseases can have extended latency periods, meaning diagnosis often comes years after exposure. This delay can lead to confusion, missed reporting opportunities, and uncertainty about whether it is still possible to take action.

“Many people are shocked to learn that an illness they develop later in life may be connected to work they did decades ago,” said Yousaf Khan, Director at Claim Time Solicitors. “Because industrial diseases develop slowly, individuals often assume it’s too late to do anything. In reality, there are circumstances where support may still be available.”

Claim Time Solicitors notes that UK law recognises the unique nature of industrial diseases and the challenges caused by delayed diagnosis. Unlike many accident-related injuries, time limits in these cases may begin when a person becomes aware of the condition and its link to their employment, rather than at the original exposure itself.

The firm highlights several important steps individuals can take if they believe they may be affected by an industrial disease, including:

Seek medical advice and record symptoms:
A formal diagnosis and clear medical records are essential in understanding the condition and its potential cause.

Document employment history:
Details of past roles, workplaces, materials handled, and dates of employment can help establish patterns of exposure.

Keep copies of medical and employment records:
Reports, letters, and test results can provide valuable evidence if further clarification is needed later.

Use initial information tools to understand options:
Claim Time Solicitors offers access to resources such as a claim checker, which can help individuals understand whether their situation may be linked to workplace exposure.

Seek clarity on available support:
Claim Time Solicitors supports a wide range of personal injury matters, including industrial disease claims, and notes that individuals can contact us to receive general information about the process and what steps may be relevant in their situation.

As awareness of historic workplace exposure grows, Claim Time Solicitors encourages individuals not to dismiss symptoms simply because they relate to past employment. Early understanding and accurate information can play an important role in protecting health, records, and legal position.

Further guidance is available through Claim Time Solicitors’ industrial disease and workplace injury resources, designed to make access to legal support more manageable: https://claimtime.com/industrial-disease-claims/

About Claim Time Solicitors

Claim Time Solicitors is a UK-based personal injury law firm with more than two decades of experience supporting individuals affected by road traffic accidents, workplace injuries, slips and trips, medical negligence, and industrial diseases. The firm is committed to clear communication, integrity, and accessible representation through its No Win No Fee approach, helping clients understand their rights and options.

Press Contact:
Contact Email: atif@claimtime.com
Issued By: Atif Syed
Phone: 08009702727
Website: www.claimtime.com
Business Address: Greencoat House, 4th Floor, 261-271 Stratford Road, Sparkbrook, Birmingham

User :- Atif Syed

Email :-claimtimes@gmail.com

Phone :-08009702727

Url :- https://claimtime.com/