03 Jun All Island Silica Dust Campaign
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) and the Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI) have launched a joint all island inspection campaign focusing on silica dust exposure in the construction sector.
The three-month campaign which, which started on 1 June, will see inspectors from both jurisdictions carrying out coordinated inspections across the island of Ireland in a bid to save lives and protect workers.
Exposure to silica dust can cause severe and often irreversible illnesses, including silicosis, lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Silicosis is an incurable lung disease caused by inhaling fine dust particles that damage lung tissue over time. Symptoms include persistent coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections. As with other occupational health risks, the long-term effects may not be immediately visible but results in reduced quality of life and increased likelihood of premature death.
Over the course of the campaign, inspectors from the HSENI and HSA will focus on high risk construction activities such as cutting, grinding, drilling and demolition.
These activities are known to generate hazardous silica dust if not properly controlled.
Inspectors will assess whether appropriate control measures are in place to eliminate or reduce exposure. These include:
- water suppression systems
- on tool dust extraction
- containment and isolation methods
- appropriate use of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) and personal protective equipment (PPE)
- adequate training and health surveillance for workers
Employers are reminded that the most effective way to protect workers is to eliminate exposure where possible. Where elimination is not feasible, exposure must be reduced through engineering controls, safe systems of work, appropriate equipment and ongoing health monitoring.
Both organisations are urging employers and workers to use this campaign as an opportunity to review current practices and ensure compliance with health and safety requirements.
Further guidance is available at the following links:
Read the HSENI Press Release in full here.