Nautilus maintains a register where members can record their exposure to asbestos – at any stage in their career. The insidious nature of asbestos exposure means that fibres of the substance can lodge in the body and only cause illness years later, so it is important to gather historical as well as recent evidence. The register records:
- the vessels members worked on that are known to contain asbestos
- the companies that employed them on these vessels
- a description of the work they were doing, with dates and witnesses
This register has been in existence for many years, and contains the confidential personal details of more than 370 members who believe that they have been exposed to the substance whilst at work. The information on this register can then be used to support any claims that may arise if evidence of asbestosis or other related diseases emerge.
To add your name to the Nautilus asbestos register, please contact the Nautilus legal department legal@nautilusint.org and request an Exposure to Asbestos Registration Form. When you have completed the form, please return it to the department with copies of any supporting documents (for instance, your seaman’s discharge book provides good evidence of the ships on which you served).
You do not need to be showing symptoms of an asbestos-related illness; the aim of the register is to collect a body of evidence which may be needed in the future – especially if your experience tallies with that of another member.
If you are unfortunate enough to contract an asbestos related disease, then you should inform the legal department without delay, as time limits apply for making compensation claims.