A ruling in the UK Court of Appeal has left lawyers scratching their heads over asbestos-related liabilities. The court found the claimant was exposed to airborne asbestos fibres but his employer had not breached its duty of care.

The man – who has since died of mesothelioma – was also exposed to asbestos particles in other jobs throughout his career as a building works supervisor.

The Brett v University of Reading case contradicts earlier rulings that apply proportionate liability according to time served with an employer.