Health and Safety Bulletin – May 25a
World Asthma Day & Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS)
The 6th May 2025 is World Asthma Day. Heavy and prolonged exposure to RCS can cause asthma, lung cancer, silicosis & chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other serious respiratory diseases.
HSE has refreshed its guidance publication ‘Health surveillance for those exposed to respirable crystalline silica’. Available on HSE website – g404.pdf
Employers in construction, worktop manufacturing and installation, stone masonry, ceramics, and quarrying should review the updated guidance to ensure they comply with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH).
Updates include that occupational health professionals should be consulted to identify when additional health surveillance is necessary to detect ill-health, for example where over-exposure to RCS dust has already occurred.
Health surveillance for silicosis is necessary:
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For workers in high-risk jobs (e.g., construction, foundries, brick and tile work, ceramics, slate, manufacturing, worktop installation, quarries, stonework).
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When workers are regularly exposed to RCS dust with a reasonable risk of developing silicosis.
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If there have been previous cases of work-related ill-health.
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When relying on respiratory protective equipment (RPE) to control RCS exposure.
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If there is evidence of work-related ill-health in the industry.
You must ensure workers:
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Recognise the importance of promptly reporting any symptoms they experience.
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Are aware of the clear system in place for reporting these symptoms.
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Attend all required health surveillance appointments.
To prevent the over exposure to RCS dust the following is to be implemented
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Using M or H class vacuums or wet clean
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Using local exhaust ventilation
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Using water suppression
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Providing RPE – FFP3 disposable mask or half mask with P3 filter or for longer duration work powered RPE such as a TH2 powered hood/helmet.
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RPE with face seals to be face fit tested.
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LEV test certification dated / servicing for vacuums
