Compensation recovered for former carpenter following diagnosis of mesothelioma, an asbestos-related cancer

Gordon Donegan began experiencing symptoms of shortness of breath in March 2022. Investigations, including a biopsy, subsequently led to a diagnosis of mesothelioma, an asbestos-related cancer.

Following his diagnosis, Mr Donegan contacted specialist asbestos diseases solicitor, Rachel Hicks at RWK Goodman.

Rachel attended Mr Donegan at home and took a detailed statement from him regarding his exposure. Mr Donegan had worked as a carpenter for a number of different companies during which time he was exposed to asbestos.

In 1962/63, Mr Donegan worked for Jacksons Insulations. He was constructing large commercial fridges and cold rooms in a workshop. The fridges were lined with asbestos. Mr Donegan had to cut asbestos sheets to size using a handsaw or circular saw, which released a lot of asbestos dust and fibres. He also worked alongside others who were mixing asbestos. He was not provided with any protective clothing or training with regards to asbestos.

He was later employed by W A Taylor Ltd, between 1963/64 and 1964/65. Mr Donegan helped to build a new brewery and his role involved doing the carpentry and ducting work. His job largely involved the construction of commercial fridges. These were again lined with asbestos sheets, which Mr Donegan had to cut to size using a handsaw or circular saw. There was no health and safety training and Mr Donegan was not provided with any protection. He also worked alongside laggers who were mixing and applying asbestos lagging to pipework. Mr Donegan returned to work for the company again in 1968/69, during which time his job was the same.

From 1969/70 until 1970/71, Mr Donegan was employed by Taylor Keenan. This role involved the same work as he had done with W A Taylor.

The claim was brought against the insurers for the companies and recently settled for a sum in excess of £160,000. Mr Donegan also has the option to claim further compensation for any costs of, or associated with, any private treatment which may be recommended for his mesothelioma in the future.