Asbestos Exposure in the Armed Forces: Hidden Risks and Compensation Gaps
For years, military personnel have been exposed to asbestos dust. It is only recently that the Ministry of Defence (MOD) has acknowledged that British military equipment may contain asbestos materials.
This includes, but is not limited to:
- The Chinook Helicopter
- The Hawk T1
- Various ships, including HMS Scott
Asbestos is often found in MOD-owned buildings, including military housing (roof tiles, insulation, floor tiles), as well as in barracks and training centres (fireproofing, wall coatings, cement sheets). As a result, many military personnel may be at risk of exposure to asbestos dust.
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral known for its resistance to heat and corrosion. Asbestos was used throughout the armed forces, especially in construction and shipbuilding due to its properties.
When inhaled, asbestos fibres can become lodged in the body, potentially causing inflammation and scarring over time. This can lead to serious health issues, including lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Veterans vs Civilians
Health and Safety Executive data indicates that roughly 89 veterans die each year from mesothelioma.
Asbestos exposure in the military is a serious issue, but it often doesn’t receive the same attention or public focus as civilian exposure. Research indicates that around 2,700 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed annually in the UK. However, the exact number of cases among UK military veterans remains unclear. On average, eight veterans each month submit claims for war pensions due to a mesothelioma diagnosis.
Compensation for veterans is limited. Veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma, if eligible, can apply for a lump sum payment under the War Pension Scheme, which may reach up to £140,000, or choose to receive a weekly or monthly pension. However, civilian claimants who are successful in their civil compensation claims often receive settlements that often exceed £200,000 plus protection in relation to the costs of non-NHS funded future medical treatment.
Veterans are not eligible for the War Pension Scheme if they suffer from any other asbestos-related disease. To qualify, they must specifically have been diagnosed with diffuse mesothelioma. However, civilian claimants can seek compensation for asbestos diseases such as pleural thickening, asbestosis and asbestos-related lung cancer.
The MOD has announced a £1.6 billion investment to deliver ‘world-class’ maintenance for British Army equipment, including tanks and armoured vehicles. However, Army personnel may still be using outdated equipment, unaware of the potential hazards it poses. The MOD has much more to do to ensure its employees are not exposed to harmful fumes and dust and that those who develop a disease due to their work receive the compensation they truly deserve.
Support Available
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma due to exposure to asbestos dust whilst serving in the Armed Forces, you can visit the Veterans’ Welfare page and contact them to apply for the War State Pension Scheme.
If you are a civilian and you or your loved ones have been affected by asbestos exposure, we’re here to help. Whether you have been affected with mesothelioma, or another asbestos-related condition or are seeking advice for a loved one, our specialist and hugely experienced Asbestos and Workplace Illness Team is here to support you. We’ll guide you through every step of the process, providing personalised advice. Contact us today on 0330 822 3451 or request a callback.