Frequently asked questions about Prescribed Industrial Disease

Prescribed Industrial Disease FAQ

Whether you are an employee or an employer, it is important to know about Prescribed Industrial Disease and its related regulations. This article answers some of the frequently asked questions about Prescribed Industrial Disease.

What is Prescribed Industrial Disease?

Prescribed Industrial Disease is where an employee has contracted an illness which is related to their work environment. These conditions are outlined by an authoritative body who decide which illnesses can be classified as an Industrial disease.

What illnesses are Prescribed Industrial Diseases?

The following illnesses are generally regarded as falling into the category of Prescribed Industrial Disease:

• • Mesothelioma

• • Asbestosis

• • Occupational Deafness

• • Berylliosis

• • Leather Preservatives Poisoning

• • Chronic Carbon Monoxide Poising

• • Brachial Plexus Injury

How do I report a Prescribed Industrial Disease?

If an employee believes that they have contracted a Prescribed Industrial Disease, they should report the condition to their employer in the first instance. The employer is then responsible for filing the relevant documents with the government. After that, the employee should contact a legal professional to seek compensation.

What type of compensation can the employee receive?

The amount of compensation which an employee can receive varies depending on the situation and type of disease. Generally, the employee can receive some form of payment or financial support, as well as access to specialized medical care or rehabilitation services.

What should employers do to protect their employees?

It is ultimately the responsibility of the employer to ensure that the workplace is free from hazards which could lead to the contraction of a Prescribed Industrial Disease. Employers should ensure that their workplace is appropriately ventilated and regularly tested for any hazardous substances. Additionally, employers should provide employees with the correct protective equipment and mandatory health and safety training. According to the Health and Safety Executive, there are over half a million people in the UK who are suffering from an illness or injury caused by workplace exposure to a hazardous substance. These workplace conditions can adversely impact an employee’s quality of life and even lead to premature death. In some cases, an individual’s illness may be classified as a prescribed industrial disease, which is an illness or injury related to work that is recognised by law.

Below are some frequently asked questions about Prescribed Industrial Diseases (PIDs).

What is a Prescribed Industrial Disease?

A Prescribed Industrial Disease is an illness or injury caused by exposure to a hazardous substance in the workplace. The illness may be physical or mental, and in some cases, the illness has been caused by a combination of two or more hazardous substances. Examples of PIDs include asbestosis, chronic bronchitis, scrotum cancer, vibration white finger, radon poisoning, and certain types of lung, skin and blood cancers.

Who is eligible to claim for a Prescribed Industrial Disease?

Under UK law, any person who is employed and is suffering from a PID is eligible to claim compensation for the illness. Those who have retired or left their job due to a PID are also eligible to make a claim. Furthermore, it is also possible for the family of a deceased worker who suffered from a PID to make a claim for compensation.

How long does it take to make a Prescribed Industrial Disease claim?

The amount of time it takes to make a successful PID claim can vary from case to case. Generally, it takes several months to build a successful claim. During the process, you may need to prove that the illness was caused by hazardous substances in your workplace, and provide medical evidence of the illness.

What is the average payout for a Prescribed Industrial Disease claim?

The amount of compensation for a successful PID claim will depend on the extent of the illness and the individual circumstances of the case. Typically, compensation will be calculated based on the cost of treatment and any lost wages that were suffered as a result of the PID. The compensation may also include an amount to cover general damages such as pain and suffering. In some cases, the compensation may be more than £200,000.

Where can I get advice and help with a Prescribed Industrial Disease Claim?

There are numerous organisations that offer advice and help to those seeking to make a claim for a PID. Examples of these organisations include solicitors, trade unions, personal injury attorneys, and organisations such as the Citizens Advice Bureau. It is also possible to seek advice from the Health and Safety Executive.

Making a claim for a PID can be a complicated process. However, by seeking the support of an experienced personal injury lawyer you can ensure that your claim is successful.