Scaffolder Could Have Breathed in Asbestos as a Child, Inquest Hears

A former scaffolder may have died due to exposure to asbestos on his father's clothing, an inquest has heard.

Alan Cooper, aged 52, died at Royal Bolton Hospital on September 28 last year from malignant mesothelioma, a rare type of cancer that is often linked to exposure to asbestos.

Bolton Coroner's Court heard that Mr Cooper believed he had been exposed to small quantities of asbestos throughout his life, including via his father, William, who also worked as a scaffolder.

It was Mr Cooper's belief that he was exposed to low levels of asbestos particles from his father's dirty work clothes when he came home every evening.

Pathologist Patrick Waugh said it was possible that Alan Cooper had been exposed at an early age, as it can often take decades for the disease to form.

He said:

"This is one of the youngest cases that I have seen. People who commonly get this disease are people exposed in 1960s and 1970s when we didn't know that asbestos was a problem."

Health problems forced Mr Cooper into retirement 11 years ago and, as symptoms of malignant mesothelioma began to materialise, he was diagnosed with the disease in April last year.

If you believe your health has suffered and your place of work might be to blame, you may be entitled to compensation. Speak to our claims team on 01204 526 465 to discuss your circumstances.

HSK Solicitors

Industrial Disease Claims