FEATURE AN INVISIBLE MENACE
Why is the Health and Safety Executive so concerned about respirable crystalline silica (RCS) on construction sites, asks the Institute of Occupational Medicine (IOM).
Construction sites tend to be dusty environments by nature and the dust present on these sites is likely to contain a significant quantity of Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS), commonly known as silica dust. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is deeply concerned about the intrusive presence of this invisible menace and for good reason.
WHY? Silica is the second most significant risk to construction
workers after asbestos. Prolonged exposure to RCS can result in lung cancer, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other debilitating respiratory diseases. With over 500 deaths due to RCS exposure every year according to HSE.
Silicosis is an incurable lung disease causing severe breathing problems, and typically follows years of exposure to silica dust. However, acute silicosis can occur within months of significant exposure. COPD, which includes bronchitis and emphysema, is another concern, resulting in breathlessness, chronic coughing, and even death.
Silica dust, specifically respirable crystalline silica (RCS), is generated during regular construction tasks like cutting, drilling, grinding, and polishing. Invisible to the naked eye, this fine dust can infiltrate workers' lungs, leading to severe health issues.
WHAT CAN BE DONE? Collecting data through personal dust monitors and
area sampling, reviewed by laboratory analysis, will provide evidence as to the scale of the problem on any given site. Sampling and analysis should ideally be conducted by a UKAS accredited organisation as this will provide reassurance that the task has been performed to the appropriate standard. This process plays a critical role in assessing RCS exposure risks, providing valuable information for implementing control measures, and ensuring worker safety and regulatory compliance.
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HSE's Dust Kills campaign provides accessible advice and guidance on the Work Right website. It aims to educate employers, small builders, and workers on the necessary control measures to prevent dust exposure. The HSE has collaborated with construction and occupational health organisations to emphasise the importance of these control measures on construction sites, including water suppression, extraction, and as a last resort, Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE).
YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES Awareness: Familiarise yourself with RCS risks and
control measures.
Training: Ensure workers receive proper training on choosing the right on-tool systems, conducting pre- use checks, and using equipment correctly.
Control Measures: Implement and monitor control measures, such as water suppression, extraction, and Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE).
Inspections: Regularly check equipment for damage and functionality. Maintain extraction units and filters as required.
Documentation: Keep records of inspections and maintenance. Arrange thorough examinations and tests (TExT) at least every 14 months.
TAKEAWAYS FOR HEALTH AND
SAFETY MANAGERS Your role is pivotal in safeguarding workers from dangers posed by silica dust. The Dust Kills campaign is a call to action. Ensure your team is well-informed, trained, and equipped to combat this invisible threat.
You can work with partners such as IOM who offer a comprehensive RCS sampling and analysis service and can provide advice on appropriate control measures to keep your workplace safe.
www.iom-world.org www.tomorrowshs.com
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