At Fieldfisher, we are recognised as one of the UK’s top practices for industrial disease claims.
Our lawyers include some of the UK’s best litigators, known for achieving landmark victories that have shaped the law and improved outcomes for claimants nationwide.
We have pursued industrial disease claims for more than 40 years and have secured millions of pounds in compensation for clients suffering from work-related illnesses.
We are proud to be ranked Band 1 by Chambers and Partners and Tier 1 by The Legal 500, reflecting our longstanding commitment to legal excellence and exceptional client care.
What is silicosis, and what are its symptoms?
Silicosis is a long-term lung disease caused by inhaling fine particles of crystalline silica dust, commonly found in materials such as stone, concrete, and sand.
It typically affects individuals who have worked in industries like construction, quarrying, or masonry, where dust exposure is frequent and prolonged.
Over time, the inhaled silica particles cause scarring and hardening of lung tissue, leading to a gradual loss of lung function.
The symptoms of silicosis often develop slowly and may not appear until years after exposure. Early signs include a persistent cough, shortness of breath during physical activity, and chest tightness.
As the disease progresses, individuals may experience severe breathlessness, fatigue, and difficulty performing everyday tasks such as walking or climbing stairs.
How do you bring a silicosis claim?
If you have been diagnosed with silicosis or an associated condition, you have three years from when you became aware of your condition to bring a claim. This is generally known as the ‘date of knowledge’.
If your exposure to silica is continuing, then you have three years from the last date you were exposed to the substance to pursue a claim. Silicosis cases can be complex and the exact timing can vary depending on individual circumstances, so it is important to seek legal advice as soon as possible.
Once instructed, we will take steps to investigate the nature of work that you did and the employers that you worked for. Employers have a duty of care to their employees and this includes protecting workers from being harmed through exposure to silica dust.
Once we are clear on your exposure, we will then take steps to gather evidence to assist in proving that your employer was negligent. If your employer did not take steps to protect you from being exposed to silica dust and you have developed silicosis as a result, they failed in their duty of care.
At Fieldfisher, we understand the complexities of silicosis claims. These cases often involve multiple employers, historic exposure and detailed medical evidence. Our specialist lawyers have the experience to trace liability, gather the right evidence, and negotiate effectively on your behalf.
We offer free initial consultations and act on a no-win, no-fee basis so you can access expert legal support without financial risk. With a proven track record in securing compensation for occupational diseases, we are here to help you get the justice you deserve.
Contact Us
For a free, no-obligation consultation with one of our silicosis lawyers, please call 0800 358 3848, email personalinjury@fieldfisher.com, or complete our online enquiry form.
Silicosis can have a lasting impact on a person’s health, particularly in its more advanced stages. Once lung tissue has been damaged by silica dust, the scarring is permanent and can continue to worsen over time, even after exposure has stopped.
This progressive nature means that individuals may face increasing limitations in their daily lives, particularly in terms of physical activity and respiratory function.
Life expectancy depends on the severity and type of silicosis. While some people with chronic forms may live for many years with careful medical management, others with more aggressive forms may experience a faster decline.
In addition to respiratory failure, silicosis is associated with a heightened risk of developing serious complications such as lung infections, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), kidney disease, and certain types of lung cancer.
These risks make early diagnosis and ongoing medical supervision essential for managing the condition and maintaining quality of life.
The amount of compensation is determined individually, based on several key factors including the severity of the illness, the extent of lung damage, and the impact the condition has on your daily life and ability to work.
Additional factors such as financial losses (including lost earnings, medical bills, and ongoing care costs) are also taken into account. Courts will also consider the emotional and psychological effects of living with a chronic, progressive disease.
If your condition is expected to worsen, you may be eligible for provisional damages, which allow for future claims if your health declines further. A thorough medical evaluation and clear evidence of workplace exposure are crucial for building a strong claim.
Our team of legal experts combines specialist knowledge with strong commitment to deliver excellent results for every client.
Contact us
For a free, no obligation call with one of our industrial disease experts, please call 0800 358 3848 or complete our online enquiry form.