In the personal injury sector, there is a modest but growing rise in silicosis claims and cases in the UK, driven by an increased awareness, media coverage, and, most notable, the emergence of cases linked to artificial (engineered) stone worktops.

Recent data notes:

• Younger claimants and artificial stone are prominent in recent rises – In effect, a mirroring of international trends, especially from Australia, which has introduced a ban on such products due explosive growth in severe silicosis cases.
• User searches, as shown in Employers’ Liability Tracing Office (ELTO) data, for ‘silicosis’ has increased by over 60% in a single year.
• The number of reported cases is trending upward. Health and Safety Executive (HSE) data showed 35 new cases assessed for compensation in 2023, up from 30 in 2022 and 25 in 2021.

A recent article, written for LexisNexis by Jim Hester, explores silicosis and silica dust claims. He highlights:

1. What silicosis is and its progression.
2. The nuanced area of employer liability in silica dust claims and their duties.
3. Statutory limitation periods that apply.
4. The inherent challenges in proving causation and how courts assess evidence.
5. The types of damages awarded. 

To read this article, visit LexisNexis here:https://www.lexisnexis.co.uk/legal/news/silicosis-claims