Silicosis – Concerns Grow for Those Working with Artificial Stone Worktops
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 surrounding the significant health risks when working with materials that contain 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 it can also be found in forms of artificially engineered stone.
What is Silicosis?
Silicosis is a chronic lung disease that results from inhaling large amounts of crystalline silica dust, usually over many years. Acute silicosis is a rare complication of short-term exposure to very large amounts of silica. Silicosis is life-threatening and associated with very significant clinical consequences. Exposure to RCS occurs during many common construction tasks—such as cutting, drilling, grinding, and polishing—especially when working with stone-based materials. These activities can generate fine dust particles that are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs. RCS is too small to be seen with normal lighting, making it particularly dangerous. Silica may also be linked to an increased risk of lung cancer. Precautions taken to control the risk of fibrosis will serve to control the risk of lung cancer. Workers with silicosis are at an increased risk of tuberculosis, kidney disease and arthritis. Exposure to RCS may also cause chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Source: https://www.hse.gov.uk/lung-disease/silicosis.htm https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/silicosis/
What are the Occupational Risks?
A wide range of occupations expose workers to the risks of RCS. These include workers in quarrying, slate production, foundries, potteries, stonemasonry, and construction (particularly when cutting or breaking stone, concrete or brick), and industries using silica flour to manufacture goods. Professionals in these industries face a greater risk because they often work with different types of stone containing varying amounts of silica. Sandstone, gritstone and quartzite, for example, can contain more than 70% of silica. RCS particles are produced during a wide range of tasks when working with these materials, including sandblasting, mining, rock drilling, quarrying, brick cutting, glass manufacturing, tunnelling, foundry work, stone working, ceramic manufacturing and various construction activities. However, one of the most concerning developments in recent years is the link between artificial stone – sometimes known as ‘quartz’ – used widely 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.
This high concentration makes it particularly hazardous to work with. Unfortunately, many workers are unaware of the dangers concerning the dangers associated with it and the relatively straightforward measures available to protect themselves. As part of a recent Work Right campaign that highlights updated HSE advice for stone worktop installers, Mike Calcutt, Deputy Director at Health and Work, stated: “HSE will continue to work with industry stakeholders to raise awareness of managing the risks from exposure to respirable crystalline silica. It’s important that businesses act now to ensure they comply with the law and protect their workers from serious lung diseases.” “Great Britain has a robust and well-established regulatory framework in place to protect workers from the health risks associated with exposure to hazardous substances. We want employers and workers to make sure they are aware of the risks associated with the activities they do, and that’s why we are sending this reminder.” “HSE’s inspectors have often found poor management of control measures including water suppression, dust extraction, equipment maintenance, cleaning and RPE provision. Employers should ensure suitable control measures are properly used and maintained.” Work Right Campaign – New simplified advice for installers of stone worktops.
Lessons from Asbestos – Recent Cases Highlight Urgent Need for Change
Studies led by clinical researchers from Royal Brompton Hospital and Imperial College London, which were published in August 2024, have suggested that there should be serious consideration given to banning the use of artificial stone in the manufacturing of kitchen worktops after treating the first eight cases of artificial stone silicosis reported in the UK. The cases involved workers who lacked adequate respiratory protection and did not use proper dust control methods, such as consistent water suppression. Ruth Wilkinson, Head of Policy and Public Affairs at IOSH, is urging employers and workers, particularly those in small businesses and self-employed sectors, to be more vigilant about the risks of silica dust. She noted, “Silicosis is preventable if the right controls for dust are put in place and closely observed… I urge employers… to take these risks seriously and to familiarise themselves with… appropriate controls for dust exposure.”
Source: Halve UK’s occupational exposure limits to silica dust, scientists recommend. Although the HSE has updated its guidance for those working with natural or artificial stones, there is widespread concern that many employers aren’t properly enforcing protective measures.
Industrial Disease Solicitors
While it can be challenging to establish that your working conditions resulted in disease or illness, our specialist industrial disease solicitors have the resources, expertise, and commitment to help you claim the compensation you are entitled to. Our dedicated team of personal injury solicitors have been helping clients nationwide recover the compensation they are entitled to for many years. We can help if you have suffered any kind of industrial disease due to your occupation, including:
- Asbestos related conditions – including mesothelioma and asbestosis.
- Other respiratory conditions/diseases caused by exposure to toxic chemicals/substances/dust, including silicosis and acute silicosis.
We will work with you to quickly establish your right to compensation and advise on your chances of a successful claim, guiding you through the process. Our team have also worked with many families who have lost a loved one due to an industrial illness or who need to claim compensation on someone’s behalf. You must seek legal advice promptly following a diagnosis of any industrial related disease diagnosed by your GP, so please contact a member of the team with any enquiries.
To get in touch with our Industrial Disease Lawyers please call 0800 987 8800 or email enquiries@bmcf.co.uk and speak to our experienced team. Alternatively, fill in our online form, and we will get back to you.
Resources: Control of exposure to silica dust Health surveillance for those exposed to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) – Guidance for occupational health professionals. Silica in Stoneworking
