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16 November 2022 | Witness Appeals | Article by Angharad Jones

Witness Appeal: Did you work with Mr Henry Edward White from 1964-1997?


The specialist asbestos claims team at Hugh James have been instructed to pursue a civil compensation claim on behalf of the family of Henry Edward White.

Henry Edward White

Mr White sadly died from the asbestos-related disease, mesothelioma, in August 2020, just one month after his diagnosis.

Mr White was born in Dublin, Ireland and worked as a Medical Electronic Engineer for J Otley Rhodes Ltd, who were based in Newport, between 1964 and 1997. He recalled various renovation and demolition projects during the 1970s and 1980s taking place in hospital theatres where he was working servicing, installing, and maintaining the X-ray equipment. Mr White believed that he was exposed to asbestos dust and debris during this time. He recalled many occasions where he was carrying out his duties in theatres whilst at the same time there was renovation work being carried out by other contractors. This renovation work included the removal of walls and ceiling panels, which may have contained the dangerous material asbestos. It is understood that Mr White was not provided with any protective equipment when this work was being carried out.

Mr White mainly worked in hospitals across South Wales, and was a service engineer for this area, but he was occasionally sent to work in the West of England, including in Bristol and Bath.

We are looking to speak to former colleagues who worked with Mr White and in particular those who can recall the renovation and demolition projects which took place at hospitals in the South Wales area, or in West of England, during the 1970s and 1980s.

If you worked with Mr White and can remember these projects taking place, or if you can provide any information about Mr White’s exposure to asbestos, we would urge you to contact the Asbestos team at Hugh James on 029 2039 1100.

Mr White’s family will be very grateful to anyone who can be of assistance.

Author bio

Angharad is a Senior Associate in the Industrial Disease department and has over three years of experience in dealing with asbestos related disease claims. She acts for patients suffering from asbestos related diseases including asbestosis, pleural thickening and mesothelioma, and also specialises in claims for silicosis.

Disclaimer: The information on the Hugh James website is for general information only and reflects the position at the date of publication. It does not constitute legal advice and should not be treated as such. If you would like to ensure the commentary reflects current legislation, case law or best practice, please contact the blog author.

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