Coke oven workers or their families may be able to claim compensation for chest disease and lung cancer as a result of a High Court victory by the mining union NACODS in Wales.
Coke oven workers at the Phurnacite plant – a coke works that made smokeless fuel in the Cynon Valley – won compensation in a High Court ruling in London last week.
Workers at the plant suffered from a variety of illnesses such as emphysema; bronchitis; obstructive airways disease and lung cancer. The illnesses were caused by their exposure to coal dust and cancer-causing chemicals.
Former employees, or their families, of coke plants in Bargoed, Nantgarw and Bedwas may now be able to claim compensation.
NACODS General Secretary Bleddyn Hancock said: “Thousands of former coke oven workers or their families may now be able to claim compensation if the workers’ contracted these illnesses as a result of their work at any coke ovens in Britain since 1954. Not only men that worked at National Coal Board plants but those run by British Steel and private firms may also eventually be able to claim compensation.
“The filthy conditions these men worked in were unbelievable. The Phurnacite plant was called the dirtiest factory in Europe. Our solicitors, Hugh James in Cardiff, have done a great job in securing this success.”
The union has arranged for a free helpline for possible claimants to get more information. The number is 0800 652 5524