Heirs of Trelleborg worker exposed to toxic chemicals get €119,509 compensation

The heirs of former Trelleborg employee Martin Viacava have won their case on appeal against the company.

The Court of Appeal has ordered Trelleborg to pay €119,509 in damages for harm caused to Viacava’s health.

Viacava, who worked as a press operator, suffered from extrinsic allergic alveolitis which led to lung problems due to chemical exposure. The health issues were untreatable and resulted in a loss of income and permanent disability, ultimately contributing to his death.

He joined Trelleborg in 1996 and then briefly left to work elsewhere, going back to the company in 2010 where he remained until 2019.

The court found that the company failed to conduct necessary tests and risk assessments and did not provide basic protective equipment such as masks. This negligence led to an unsafe workplace that jeopardised his health, the court pointed out.

Trelleborg denied that Viacava’s health issues were related to his work exposure, insisting that they had complied with all legal requirements and therefore were not responsible for paying any compensation.

However, the Court determined that Trelleborg was liable for the health issues suffered by Viacava due to their negligence and failure to comply with health and safety regulations.

The General Workers Union, who supported the Viacava family in the proceedings, expressed its satisfaction with the outcome, highlighting that “justice was served” for their member.

The case was led by lawyer Christopher Vella, and since Viacava passed away during the legal proceedings, the Court awarded compensation to his heirs.

“The judgement underscores the importance of having strong union support and a competent legal team to achieve justice, even when the path seems difficult,” the GWU said.

The union urged anyone who experiences problems in their workplace to “come forward immediately and voice their concerns.”