Pneumoconiosis Etc. (Workers’ Compensation) Act 1979

The purpose of the Act

The 1979 Act provides one-off lump sum compensation for sufferers (or their dependants if they have died) of certain dust-related diseases. Sufferers must be unable to claim damages from the employers who caused the disease, because they have ceased trading.

Who can apply?

Sufferers of the following dust related diseases caused by their employment or certain dependants if the sufferer has died:

• Diffuse Mesothelioma
• Pneumoconiosis (which includes Silicosis, Asbestosis, Kaolinosis)
• Diffuse Pleural Thickening
• Primary Carcinoma of the Lung (only if accompanied by asbestosis or diffuse pleural thickening)
• Byssinosis

Conditions of Entitlements

• Sufferers should normally be in receipt of Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit (IIDB) in respect of one of the above diseases.
• Dependants can claim IIDB posthumously but there are time limits for making posthumous claims.
• The employer who caused or contributed towards the disease should normally have ceased trading.

The sufferer or dependants must not have brought a court action or received compensation from an employer in respect of the disease.

When to Apply?

Sufferers: You should apply as soon as you think you are suffering from a disease covered by the Act. You should not await the outcome of a claim to the Jobcentre Plus for (IIDB) before applying to us.

Dependants: You should apply as soon as you are aware that your husband or wife had suffered from a disease covered by the Act. There is no need to await the outcome of a claim for IIDB. If you are time barred from claiming IIDB you should still apply to us.

How to Apply?

Please contact us on 0800 279 2322 for further information and to request an application form.

Please read the current information regarding Call Charges.

This page is for general guidance only. It is not a full statement of the law.