Consultancy service

Expert Witness Services

When workplace health and safety disputes require specialist evidence, IOM provides independent, evidence-based opinions to support courts and tribunals.

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Service overview

Independent evidence for courts and tribunals

When workplace health and safety disputes require specialist evidence, IOM provides independent, evidence-based opinions to support courts and tribunals.

When this service may be needed

A claim requires independent technical assessment
Exposure history, causation or standards of practice are disputed
The court or parties need clear explanation of complex evidence

What makes IOM different

Our multidisciplinary team combines scientific research, workplace investigation and practical consulting experience. This allows us to examine complex cases from different perspectives and reach well-supported conclusions.

We work with solicitors, insurers, employers and other parties across the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland. Our occupational hygienists, ergonomists and workplace health specialists provide case assessments, expert reports and evidence in civil and criminal litigation.

Our areas of expertise

Law firms across the UK trust IOM for our independence, scientific integrity and ability to explain complex technical evidence in plain language.

Drawing on decades of research and workplace experience, our specialists provide authoritative opinions that can withstand detailed examination.

Our experts can provide evidence on:

Asbestos and other fibres

Assessing compliance of working practices with current and historic asbestos legislation and guidance
Retrospective exposure assessment and assessment of exposure apportionment
Appraisal of asbestos removal project management and practices
Appraisal of the quality of asbestos surveys with guidance and best practice
Appraisal of compliance with Duty to Manage Asbestos in Non-Domestic Premises
Appraisal of ongoing asbestos management practices

Epidemiology

Meta-analysis and systematic reviews
Disease cluster investigations
Statistical analysis of health data

Ergonomics and human factors

Workplace, workstation and task design
Human error rate quantification
Manual handling and injury risk assessment Work-related upper limb disorders
Human-computer interaction
Mental and physical workload assessment
Biomechanics
3D computer modelling from video footage

Occupational hygiene

Appraisal of compliance with Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH)
Appraisal of compliance with the Control of Lead at Work Regulations
Specialist expertise in claims relating to:
- dermal exposures
- respiratory diseases, including those caused by occupational carcinogens, respiratory sensitisers and biological hazards (incl Legionella and Covid-19).
Heat and cold stress
physical agents (Noise and hand-arm vibration)

Discuss a case with our experts

Contact our expert witness team to discuss the circumstances of your case and the specialist evidence you need.

What the service includes

Review the instructions, evidence and technical questions.

Assess exposure histories, workplace evidence and scientific literature.

Prepare clear, balanced and well-supported expert opinions.

Site inspections, attendance at case conferences, joint statements and Court attendance where required.

Client feedback

What our clients say

Feedback from

DAC Beachcroft
BC Legal
Keoghs
DWF Law LLP
Weightmans LLP

Our first port of call for expert services

IOM tend to be our first port of call for expert services – I’ve worked with them for the last 25 years. Throughout that time, I’ve been impressed by the strength and depth of their expertise. Whatever the scenario, IOM have an expert who has the requisite knowledge to assist. As an organisation, they are easy to engage and will often be able to provide reports at short notice. The quality of IOM’s work is always first class and their experts, particularly Andy Stelling and Andrew Phillips, are sensible, balanced and hugely knowledgeable.

William Potts Head of Disease – CSG, DAC Beachcroft

At the very top rung of Occupational Hygiene experts

Andy Stelling is at the very top rung of Occupational Hygiene experts. His broad practical experience and extensive involvement over many years in the medico-legal context provides an invaluable resource. A consistent attention to detail overlaid with pragmatic commercial advice and common sense makes him a ‘go to’ expert.

Benjamin Ling Solicitor, BC Legal

My first choice of expert in more difficult and unusual cases

Andy Stelling is my first choice of expert in more difficult and unusual cases. He is very knowledgeable, meticulous and always helpful and responsive.

David Pugh Partner, Keoghs

Consistently first class

The quality of service provided by Andy Stelling and IOM has been consistently first class. Their expertise, professionalism and personable approach make them a trusted and valued resource. What particularly distinguishes Andy is his responsiveness and accessibility. He is always willing to discuss cases, provide clear guidance on technical issues and assist in identifying the most appropriate expert approach. His advice is pragmatic, balanced and delivered in a way that is readily understood by lawyers, insurers and clients alike.

Richard Parker Partner, DWF Law LLP

Their reports are well written, comprehensive, and realistic

I have worked with IOM for a number of years and have always been impressed with their reporting and service. Their reports are well written, comprehensive, and realistic. The admin team are very proactive and respond to queries promptly.

Liam Bedford Legal Director, Weightmans LLP

What you receive

Clear evidence and usable next steps

Independent case assessment
Clear explanation of complex technical evidence
Expert report prepared to the relevant instructions
Support through the litigation process where required

Get practical advice for your organisation.

Discuss a case

Tell us what you need to achieve and your enquiry will be directed to the most appropriate team.

Speak to an expert