New Research Reveals Silicosis Risk Even at Low Levels of Silica Dust Exposure
Following our previous articles highlighting HSE manufacturing inspection initiatives targeting silica-related respiratory risks, and the growing concerns for those working with artificial stone worktops, new research is challenging long-held assumptions about “safe” levels of silica dust exposure. New evidence reveals that workers face significant health risks even when exposure remains below current regulatory limits.
Read our previous articles here:
HSE’s New Manufacturing Inspection Initiative Targets Silica-Related Respiratory Risks
Silicosis – Concerns Grow for Those Working with Artificial Stone Worktops
What Does the Latest Research Show About Low-Level Silica Exposure?
According to an article published by Pulmonology Advisor – “silicosis risk even with low level silica dust exposure” – a study published in the medical journal Thorax has revealed concerning evidence that long-term exposure to silica dust, even at levels below permissible exposure limits, is associated with a heightened risk of developing silicosis.
The research, which followed over 30,000 workers in Chinese pottery factories and metal mines for more than three decades, found elevated silicosis risks across all low-level exposure groups.
The study demonstrated that workers exposed to average silica concentrations of 0.35 mg/m³ or less—well within regulatory limits—still faced substantially increased risks of developing silicosis. Even among workers exposed to concentrations of 0.05 mg/m³ or lower, the research identified a twofold increase in silicosis risk for those in the highest exposure quartile compared with the lowest.
These findings remained consistent regardless of where workers were employed or their smoking status, suggesting that the health risks of silica exposure may be more severe than previously understood.
Silicosis Health Risks for Workers in the UK
Several workplace safety organisations, including the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) and the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH), have been leading campaigns to raise awareness of the significant health risks associated with working with materials containing respirable crystalline silica (RCS), specifically the dangers of developing silicosis. RCS is found in a range of natural materials, including stone, rocks, sands, and clays, and can also be found in artificially engineered stone. However, one of the most concerning developments in recent years is the link between artificial stone – sometimes known as ‘quartz’ – widely used in modern kitchen and bathroom worktops and a severe, fast-progressing form of silicosis. While natural granite contains about 30% silica, engineered stone typically contains 90% or more silica.
In January 2025, the HSE published new simplified guidance specially aimed at installers of stone worktops, as well as their managers and supervisors, to ensure they understand the steps required to control exposure risks. For further information on the HSE’s campaign, visit: HSE Stone Masonry Guide.
What Legal Obligations Do UK Employers Have Regarding Silica Exposure?
There are several strict regulatory obligations in place for employers to establish suitable arrangements for managing health and safety, and to ensure compliance with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH). Businesses are required to implement effective control measures, including Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV), water suppression, and personal protective equipment such as Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) to minimise workers’ exposure to RCS. Should any health and safety violations be identified, HSE will take enforcement actions to guarantee the protection of workers’ health.
However, workers exposed to concentrations at or below 0.1 mg/m³ in the study showed hazard ratios for silicosis ranging from 2.52 to 4.08 compared to those with the lowest cumulative exposure, demonstrating that current exposure limits in the UK may not provide adequate protection against disease development.
The latest research suggests that the focus must shift from merely complying with exposure limits to implementing the most effective control measures possible to minimise all exposure to respirable crystalline silica.
We will monitor updates and guidance from HSE and IOSH regarding new workplace recommendations and obligations for employers.
Industrial Disease Claim Solicitors
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