From Jan 2024

Despite the real dangers of this material, just over half a million workers are exposed to silica each year in the UK. Around 1,000 workers die each year as a result – about the equivalent toll were two jumbo jets to crash mid air. Imagine the safety outcry there would be were that tragedy to happen, yet the quiet, hidden tragedy of silicosis is not being even noticed.

And this figure also does not account for thousands more who are left with long-term debilitating lung problems that severely impair the quality of their life. Those working as stoneworkers, construction workers, engineers, and in agriculture are at the highest risk .

What is the UK doing to address this problem?

Unlike asbestos, there is no specific law relating to the risk of silica dust, despite it being at least as lethal as asbestos. According to the advocacy group, Hazards, there are two main existing pieces of legislation that relate to silica exposure. First is the Health and Safety at Work Act (1974), which requires employers to ensure the physical and mental health of workers and others impacted by their work activities or in their working environment.