Thousands of Britons with serious industrial diseases may now be able to receive compensation, even if they have so far missed out as a result of being unable to trace their employer’s insurance records, it has been revealed.
The Department for Work and Pensions has announced the proposals in its new consultation paper, which aims to set up an Employers’ Liability Tracing Office.
According to the department, the new office would have the responsibility of tracking down employers’ liability insurance policies, while an Employers’ Liability Insurance Bureau would provide a “fund of last resort” to those who have not found the cover.
Meanwhile, time will be spent looking at how employers can better meet their obligations to maintain their liability compulsory insurance.
Commenting on the news, department minister Lord McKenzie said: “Far too many people suffering from serious industrial diseases are unable to trace their insurance polices and get the compensation they deserve.”
Meanwhile, the Health and Safety Executive recently reported Ernest Jones, managing director of Coseley-based First Metal Finishers in the Black Country, has been fined £2,000 and ordered to pay costs of £1,000 after being found guilty of neglecting to control legionella at the firm’s site.
