The HSE’s latest announcement on engineered stone, alongside the new COSHH sheet for engineered stone, represents an important step towards reducing occupational exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS).
Exposure to RCS can lead to silicosis, a serious but preventable occupational lung disease. Workers involved in cutting, grinding, drilling, crushing, or handling silica-containing materials such as stone, concrete, brick, sand, and engineered stone are among those at greatest risk.
Recent cases involving the deaths of young workers from silicosis have highlighted the devastating consequences of inadequate control of RCS containing dust. In response to these silicosis deaths the HSE undertook a two-year process of research and industry engagement. The HSE has stated that the most effective and proportionate action is to make sure proper controls are in place and are actively enforced.
Occupational hygienists play a vital role in helping organisations manage and reduce exposure to RCS. This includes identifying high-risk activities, carrying out exposure monitoring, assessing the effectiveness of existing controls, and recommending practical improvements in line with the hierarchy of control.
The expertise of our Occupational hygienists helps organisations determine whether current control measures are effective and ensures that workers are adequately protected from harmful exposure.
Please contact Rosie McKay on 01302 499050 to discuss RCS exposure and control measures within your workplace.