Work-Related Illnesses – Understanding Whether You Have a Claim
On 9 February 2026 the Health and Safety Executive of Northern Ireland launched a new TV and multimedia advertising initiative promoting the need for awareness on how your health could be damaged in the workplace.
Recent statistics
HSENI’s ‘Workplace Health Statistics and Analysis for Northern Ireland 2025’ report highlights the extent to which workplace-related illness is impacting individuals in Northern Ireland.
Some key statistics outlined in the report include:
- 110 deaths estimated from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) due to work in 2023.
- 6,400 people estimated to have suffered from work-related COPD in 2023.
- 15 Asbestosis-related deaths registered in 2022.
In relation to occupational cancer, the report outlines the below annual figures:
- Around 200 deaths annually could be attributable to occupational cancers.
- 47 deaths from Mesothelioma and the same number of deaths estimated from Asbestos-related lung cancers.
- 20 lung cancer deaths estimated due to exposure to Silica dust at work.
- 80 other work-related cancer deaths estimated, such as bladder, lung, and other cancers, due to exposure to cancer-causing agents, for example, diesel engine exhaust emissions and mineral oils.
How we can help
Wilson Nesbitt’s specialist industrial disease team has extensive experience in obtaining compensation for employees who are affected by exposure to dusts, fumes and gases amongst other harmful substances.
We can offer advice and assistance in relation to a number of workplace-related illnesses and conditions, including:
- Asbestos diseases
- Occupational asthma
- Work-related COPD
- Silica dust
If you have any concerns or have been diagnosed with one of the above conditions, our specialist team can assist with providing advice on the merits of any potential claim.
If you would like further information, please get in touch with our team.