Laggers

Historically, an insulation engineer (known as a lagger) applied insulating materials such as felt, fibreglass, polyurethane and cork to various fittings, including pipes, steam generators, process vats and ducting. In addition, they would secure the insulation with wire and other materials using welding torches.

Prior to the use of asbestos becoming illegal in 1999, laggers would be tasked with working on the installation and removal of asbestos lagging. It was common for men to work without protective clothing or sufficient masks, meaning they would breathe in the toxic asbestos fibres.

Laggers worked in various industries, including on ships and in submarines and other confined spaces. In addition to fitting the lagging, laggers would be tasked with handling the asbestos fibres by hand to prepare them for use.

For those who worked as a lagger and have subsequently been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, acting quickly is essential – more specifically within three years of diagnosis – to give you and your family the best chance of receiving the compensation you deserve.

If you cannot find the information that you are looking for, simply contact us using this form or by calling us on 0800 987 8809. We will be only too pleased to try and help you.

Protecting health. Enhancing awareness. Working towards a safer future.

How Laggers Used Asbestos

Laggers were exposed to asbestos in a variety of ways. In some cases, laggers would carry large amounts of asbestos fibres or pieces and gradually empty them into a rotating drum. Water or other adhesives were mixed with the asbestos in the drum to form a paste, which was then applied directly onto materials requiring insulation. A typical workday would see loose asbestos fibres become airborne, enveloping the lungs of laggers and other nearby workers.

In addition, some laggers would create plugs by combining asbestos with adhesives or water to insert into small gaps or openings. At the time, this was considered relatively safe, particularly in comparison to the excessive risks of tasks surrounding them in industrial settings. Even after the risks associated with asbestos were discovered, some companies continued to utilise the substance. In some instances, it was even found that companies falsely claimed that their new insulation material was asbestos-free. However, later government tests identified that it still contained up to 12% asbestos.

Seeking Compensation for Asbestos Exposure

For laggers, their job was often dangerous, and many put their lives at risk daily due to the nature of working at height or in confined spaces. However, many did not realise that the most prominent risk was often the levels of exposure to asbestos that they were facing.

Due to the latency period associated with asbestos (between 20 and 60 years), ex-laggers and other workers are still being diagnosed with the disease even today.

Solicitor for Asbestos-Related Disease

Bridge McFarland LLP has a team of dedicated and compassionate solicitors on hand to support you throughout your compensation claim.

We have experience supporting people across the UK in achieving the compensation they deserve.

Asbestos Awareness is dedicated to informing, educating, and supporting people in relation to asbestos-related diseases.

For further information, or to speak to a member of our experienced medical personal injury solicitors, please call 0800 987 8809. Alternatively, you can fill in this contact form.

To discuss making an asbestos compensation claim, please complete the form below to receive an email or a phone call from us.