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Chemicals cause death of Barrowford man
A BARROWFORD man died as a result of exposure to industrial chemicals, an inquest heard.
John Kerr (90), who was a laboratory technician for ICI, worked in an environment where cancer-causing chemicals were used.
He died only a month before celebrating his 91st birthday, after losing his battle with bladder cancer.
His death was the subject of an inquest at Burnley Coroner's Court, where the link between his exposure to bladder carcinogens and the fatal cancer was investigated.
During his career, Mr Kerr, of Belmont Terrace, Barrowford, worked as a shift tester in an acid laboratory at the company's Huddersfield site.
Records from the time showed no specific evidence of Mr Kerr having handled or being exposed to carcinogenic materials.
However, during his employment he was not included on the urine cytology register, which would have detailed any exposure.
Pathologist Dr Walid Salman said: "In my opinion, with a history of working in that environment, he could have been exposed."
East Lancashire Coroner Mr Richard Taylor said it was well documented that chemicals used in the industry were known bladder carcinogens.
He said: "It's more likely than not that his exposure contributed towards the cancer."
Mr Taylor recorded a verdict of death from industrial disease.
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Friday 25 May 2012
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