£104,000 in compensation for occupational asthma

A council blacksmith who developed asthma when he was exposed to dangerous fumes in the workplace has been awarded £104,000 in compensation. He was exposed to fumes from metalworking fluids, used to help cut metal. The asthma means that he has a 35% respiratory disability and has had to give up his trade as a blacksmith. He is now working in a temporary clerical role for the council but medical experts have said if he lost his job he would never be able to work again. He was initially offered just £16,000 in compensation by the council.