A construction worker diagnosed with an incurable disease is warning of the dangers of asbestos.

Stan Braham, 71, from Hartlepool, has been diagnosed with the lung condition diffuse pleural thickening from years of exposure to asbestos.

He is speaking out to warn others of the dangers of working with hazardous materials after law firm Irwin Mitchell won compensation for Stan.

The legal experts have secured an undisclosed settlement from some of the dad-of-one’s previous employers in connection with his illness.

Stan (centre) with wife Pamela and son Michael.

placeholder image — Stan (centre) with wife Pamela and son Michael.

Stan who began working in construction in the early 1970s on leaving school aged 15, recalls regularly working with materials containing asbestos, particularly early in his career.

He was found to have pleural plaques – a thickening of the membrane surrounding the lungs – in around 2008.

Although pleural plaques is no longer a compensable condition under UK Law, Stan began experiencing increasing breathlessness, and following tests was diagnosed with pleural thickening in 2023.

Stan said: “When I look back, it’s frightening. We were working with materials we now know contained asbestos but at the time I had no idea I was in danger.

Stan (pictured in the 90s) began working in construction after leaving school.

“I’m okay doing normal activities such as walking around the house, or walking on the flat at my own pace, however, if I try to do anything strenuous, I become very breathless.”

The settlement is on a provisional damages basis, meaning Stan can seek further damages in the future if his condition significantly deteriorates or he develops a further asbestos-related disease.

Stephanie Denham, from Irwin Mitchell, said: “Stan’s case is another stark reminder of the devastating legacy asbestos has left behind and how too many people continue to develop life-changing conditions many years after exposure, simply from doing their job.

Asbestos has been banned in the UK since 1999 but Stephanie said it is still present in many buildings.

Stan, who is married Pamela, 66, and dad to Michael, 33, added: “While nothing can make up for what I’ve been through, I’m thankful to have some peace of mind that if my condition gets worse, my future care needs will be taken care of.

“I’m speaking out because I don’t want others to go through this – asbestos is still out there and people need to understand how dangerous it can be.”