Former Cardiff paper mill worker seek information following asbestos-related cancer diagnosis

Former paper mill worker Richard Dawson believes his job at Cardiff based Arjo Wiggins exposed him to asbestos leading to his mesothelioma diagnosis.

The 49-year-old, who now lives in Canada, is appealing for help from former work colleagues who worked at the paper mill at a similar time to Richard.

Richard, who is represented by law firm Leigh Day, was raised in Wales, and worked at Arjo Wiggins between 1992 and 2000.

Richard Dawson.

He joined the company when he was 18, working in the materials handling department undertaking groundwork and housekeeping all around the site. His role included cutting grass, re-stacking pallets, sweeping up and supplying stores with the equipment when deliveries came in.

Richard became a permanent materials handler from 1993, delivering materials to different buildings, collected paper and other products, and was trained to use multiple vehicles.

Richard Dawson.

He believes he came into contact with asbestos, including cement sheets which lined internal walls, corrugated roofing and pipe lagging. 

In May 2022, Richard was diagnosed with Sarcomatoid mesothelioma and is now receiving treatment but the diagnosis has been devastating for him and his family. 

His case is being handled by Leigh Day solicitors Daniel Easton and Heetasha Khosla, who said:

“Richard has told us he was not warned of the dangers of working with asbestos and was not provided with any protective equipment to prevent him from inhaling dust and fibres as he worked. 

“We are appealing for information from people who may have worked at the paper mill at a similar time to Richard, or that did a similar job, to assist with our investigations into the claim.”

If you worked for Arjo Wiggins between 1990 and 2000 and remember asbestos, please contact Heetasha Khosla at Leigh Day by email or telephone:

Email: hkhosla@leighday.co.uk Telephone: 020 7650 1208