What is mesothelioma and how is it linked to Geoffrey King's death?

Mesothelioma is a severe cancer mainly triggered by asbestos exposure. It was confirmed as the cause of death for Geoffrey King.

What were the findings regarding asbestos at Poole Hospital?

A 2013 survey found multiple 'high risk' areas with dangerous asbestos conditions at Poole Hospital, where Mr. King worked.

Did Geoffrey King's family receive compensation from Poole Hospital?

Yes, Geoffrey King's family was awarded a six-figure compensation payout from his former employer, University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust.

Home / Health / Hospital Porter's Asbestos Death: Family Seeks Answers

Hospital Porter's Asbestos Death: Family Seeks Answers

9 Dec

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Summary

Hospital porter died from asbestos-related cancer, mesothelioma.
Family received six-figure compensation payout from former employer.
Poole Hospital had 'high risk' asbestos exposure areas flagged.

Hospital Porter's Asbestos Death: Family Seeks Answers

The family of Geoffrey King, a former hospital porter, is seeking answers following his death from mesothelioma, an asbestos-related cancer. Mr. King, a grandad-of-four who dedicated over two decades of service to Poole Hospital in Dorset, passed away in December 2021. His family has since been awarded a six-figure compensation sum from his former employer.

Despite the settlement, the University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust did not admit fault. This comes as a Freedom of Information request revealed that Poole Hospital had identified several areas as 'high risk' for asbestos exposure, with surveys in 2013 noting dangerous asbestos conditions, particularly in the boiler room and surrounding areas.

Mr. King's daughter expressed the family's ongoing grief and frustration over the lack of clear answers. The situation highlights concerns about asbestos safety in workplaces, as the family struggles to comprehend losing a loved one to a preventable industrial disease.