Across the UK there is a rapidly emerging workplace health crisis.
Silicosis.
Silicosis has been making headlines over the past few months as “killer dust” from “killer kitchens” leading to the “disease we had never heard of”.
The lack of awareness, training, support and action is a serious threat to UK workers.
Silicosis is an incurable lung disease caused by inhalation of crystalline silica; it can begin with seemingly mild symptoms such as a persistent cough and shortness of breath that fatally develops into extreme fatigue, weakness and progressive respiratory failure.
So why is this making headlines now?
The reality is that this isn't a new disease.
Silicosis has been recognised for centuries but in recent decades it has been considered a disease of the past associated with industries such as mining that are no longer prominent within the UK.
However, the increased use of engineered stone has exposed a new generation of workers to Silicosis.
Engineered stone is a man-made composite which has become extremely popular within construction and property developments for:
- kitchen countertops
- bathroom vanities
- building facades
- wall cladding
- high traffic flooring solutions
It is versatile and durable but the serious hazard is that it consists of around 90% or above crystalline silica.
When the engineered stone is drilled, cut, polished or ground microscopic crystalline silica dust particles can travel deep into the lungs. Leading to silicosis.
Awareness and action must increase.
Despite increasing concern from regulators and occupational health professionals, awareness amongst UK workers and companies is still limited.
This is not a hazard to be overlooked, every breath counts.
The workplace exposure limit in the UK is 0.1 mg/m³ over an 8 hour working day. Which is shown below against a one penny coin.
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Employers must comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health regulations (COSHH) by:
- assessing risks
- keeping written records
- substituting materials where possible
- providing regular detailed training
And most importantly providing certified PPE including Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE).
At Arden Winch our team have invaluable experience assessing and supplying RPE. As registered BSIF safety suppliers we ensure every worker goes home safe including those exposed to crystalline silica dust.
At the minimum we recommend that an FFP3 particulate filter mask, which has been face fit tested by one of our trained experts, should be worn when working with engineered stone or other materials containing silica.
For the highest level of protection we recommend a powered air purifying respirator system, these provide a constant filtered airflow inside a mask or hood.
If you or your team have facial hair, a (PAPR) system is essential as facial hair can loosen the fit of a face mask and cause crystalline silica dust particles to travel into the nose or mouth and be inhaled.
If your organisation works with engineered stone, concrete, brick, tile or any silica containing materials, now is the time to review your control measures and contact our team.