The family of a man with close links to South Wales & Herefordshire, who lost his life to mesothelioma, are seeking answers as to where and how he was exposed to asbestos.
Mr Brian Tipper who lived in Ross-On-Wye passed away on 5 July 2023 at the age of 76, less than two months after he was diagnosed with the asbestos-related disease, mesothelioma.
Brian’s family believe that he could have been exposed to asbestos during his employment as an electrician for the following companies:
- South Wales Electricity Board (1963/64 – 1967/68 and 1971/72 to 1973/74)
- British Railways (1967/68 – 1968/69)
- Ashton Paper Mill Ltd (1968/69)
- Gwent Electrical Co Ltd (1969/70)
- David Grimme (Electrical) Ltd (1969/70 & 1971/72)
- Duramin Engineering Co. Ltd (1970/71)
- I.S.C (NSC) Avonmouth (1970/71 – 1971/72) and
- Davies Electrical Services Ltd (1973/74 – 1977/78)
During his employment with South Wales Electricity Board between 1963 to 1968 and 1971/72 to 1973/74, Brian was based in Newport and Pontypool. Brian was also based in Newport, including Severn Tunnel Junction, with British Rail between 1967/68 to 1968/69.
Asbestos was known for its fire-retardant and insulating properties. Electricians in the 1960s to 1980s faced significant asbestos exposure due to its widespread use in various electrical products and construction materials, such as wiring, insulation, switchboards, and even clothing worn by electricians. Exposure often occurred during routine electrical work, such as installing or repairing wiring, replacing fuses, and working around electrical panels.
Hugh James have been instructed to pursue a civil compensation claim by Brian’s family. His family are appealing to former colleagues to come forward with any information about how Brian may have been specifically exposed to asbestos.
Ceri Clark, asbestos claims solicitor and senior associate at Hugh James, said:
We are hoping to help Brian’s family seek answers. If you worked with Brian Tipper at any point during his lifetime and/or have any information relating to how Brian could have been exposed to asbestos whilst working for these companies, please come forward as soon as possible.
Your recollections could play a crucial role in the ongoing case to establish the circumstances of asbestos exposure and hold accountable those responsible.
