A 66-year-old father died as a result of asbestos exposure, an inquest has heard.
Leslie Hingerty from Stafford was exposed to asbestos dust through his work at the Universal Grinding Wheel Company, Cannock Coroner’s Court heard last week (6th February).
For more than 30 years Mr Hingerty worked as a kiln operator and in a statement made prior to his death, he explained how the ovens he worked with daily were insulated with asbestos. This meant that when the doors were opened and closed, asbestos dust was released into the air.
He was diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma In September 2013 and in 2014 a CT scan revealed that the disease had progressed. In November he was admitted to Stafford’s County Hospital suffering kidney failure and shortness of breath. His condition deteriorated and he passed away in hospital on 27th November.
The inquest heard how a post mortem confirmed a tumour was encasing Mr Hingerty’s right lung, with the cause of death given as malignant mesothelioma.
Deputy assistant coroner for South Staffordshire, Richard Hughes, recorded a verdict of death from industrial disease.
“It is very unfortunate that someone in their working life was exposed to this condition and has gone on to be diagnosed with this terrible condition,” Mr Hughes said.