HSE Focus on Silica Exposure in Manufacturing

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) continues to carry out inspections of manufacturing businesses that work with silica-containing materials across England, Wales, and Scotland. These inspections aim to ensure that risks from respirable crystalline silica (RCS) are being effectively managed to protect workers’ health.

RCS is a hazardous dust created when materials containing silica are cut, drilled, ground, or otherwise disturbed. Without proper controls, workers exposed to it can develop serious and sometimes fatal lung diseases, including silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer. Even repeated low-level exposure over time can cause permanent damage.

Silica is commonly present in products such as bricks, tiles, and concrete, and is naturally found in most rocks, stone, sand, and clay. This means industries such as brick and tile manufacturing, foundries, and stonework remain a particular focus for HSE inspectors.

Managing the risks of RCS

Employers can reduce the risks of silica dust by:

• Eliminating or reducing dust at source (e.g. water suppression, on-tool extraction, local exhaust ventilation)

• Damping down dust in the workplace

• Providing suitable respiratory protective equipment (RPE) that has been face fit tested

• Regularly checking and maintaining control equipment

• Training and educating employees about the risks and how to work safely

The Workplace Exposure Limit (WEL) for RCS is 0.1 mg/m³ (8-hour time-weighted average), and employers must keep exposures as low as reasonably practicable. Health surveillance, including lung function testing, is often required where there is a significant risk.

For further guidance, visit the HSE website on silica.

At All Health Matters, we can support your silica health and safety strategy with face fit testing and lung function testing. Speak to our team about your needs now.