Asbestos, compensation for former shipyard workers: EUR 28 000 to EUR 260 000

A new decree has been issued updating compensation tables for victims of asbestos exposure among former workers in naval shipyards, with indemnity amounts ranging from 28,000 euros to 260,000 euros. The update applies to the years 2024 and 2025, and outlines specific eligibility criteria for accessing the Fund. Access to the fund requires either a final court judgment or a reconciliation agreement, judicial or signed in a protected setting, filed in 2024 or 2025, depending on the requested year. This change affects both current workers and their heirs who have suffered asbestos-related diseases. The Ministry of Labour, working together with the Ministry of Economy, revised the payment tables for victims of asbestos exposure in naval shipyard contexts. Eligible individuals include workers employed by publicly owned companies and those who worked under subcontracting or temporary employment arrangements for these entities. These workers must have contracted asbestos-related illnesses as defined by Article 13 of Law No. 257/1992. Their heirs are also eligible if they meet certain conditions. Two distinct groups are covered under the updated tables. For workers diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases, the compensation increases according to the degree of disability recognized. The amounts range from 28,000 euros for up to 20% disability to 260,000 euros for disabilities between 81% and 100%. For the heirs of deceased workers, fixed amounts are provided based on the number of beneficiaries. These include 168,250 euros for one heir, 235,550 euros for two, and 329,770 euros for three or more. Access to the fund is not automatic and depends on legal documentation. A final court decision or a reconciliation agreement filed within the specified periods is required. If a worker dies during the judicial process and the heirs continue the case, Table 1 applies. Conversely, if the heirs initiate the legal action after the worker’s death, Table 2 is used. The amount paid through the fund cannot exceed what was already awarded in court or through reconciliation, and each verified incident can result in only one payment. The decree also allows public-owned companies without original insurance guarantees or warranties to apply for reimbursement of funds already paid to workers as compensation. To qualify, these companies must provide proof of payment clearance. Workers whose injuries were not recognized by INAIL are excluded from the program, and this exclusion extends to their heirs in the event of death. The changes reflect ongoing efforts to ensure fair compensation for those affected by asbestos exposure in the shipbuilding industry. With the new guidelines, there is a clearer framework for determining eligibility and the corresponding financial support. The focus remains on ensuring that all qualifying cases receive appropriate recognition and assistance, while maintaining strict adherence to legal requirements and procedural standards.