Abroad|26/11/14

BELGIUM: Few self-employed workers compensated by the Asbestos Fund (AFA)

Home > The news of EUROGIP and occupational risks in Europe > BELGIUM: Few self-employed workers compensated by the Asbestos Fund (AFA)

medecins-radioSince the creation of the Asbestos Fund (AFA) in 2007, very few self-employed workers have filed a claim for compensation with the Occupational Disease Fund (FMP) which manages the AFA. Over the period 2007-2013, they accounted for only 3.3% of the workers receiving compensation.

And yet, just like salaried workers, who represent 75.5% of the workers receiving compensation, the self-employed workers were exposed to asbestos in numerous sectors (roofing and demolition, the storage, sale and distribution of fibrocement products, heating system installation, joinery, etc.). According to the FMP, if self-employed workers file so few claims, it is because they are not well acquainted with the compensation system for asbestos victims. The FMP therefore calls on all self-employed workers suffering from respiratory difficulties to contact their family doctor to review their state of health and their possible exposure to asbestos.

The Asbestos Fund pays compensation to mesothelioma and asbestosis sufferers irrespective of the source of the exposure, occupational or environmental. It is financed in equal proportions by the government and companies.

To find out more (in French)

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