8 New Silicosis Cases Diagnosed In The UK: What Now?

Artificial stone kitchen worktops have become a popular and cheaper alternative to more expensive marble and granite, but a rise in cases of silicosis has highlighted a serious developing health issue.

Since mid-2023, eight cases of silicosis have been diagnosed in the UK, with one patient dying from the disease and two others facing assessments for lung transplants. Most of the patients are young, foreign-born men in their thirties who have been employed in poorly regulated manufacturing environments. Their diagnoses underline the need for prompt regulatory action, and the Government is now under pressure to take decisive action to prevent the number of cases from soaring.

An Incurable Condition

Silicosis is an incurable disease caused by inhaling silica dust from materials such as quartz, sandstone, concrete, and ceramics. Prolonged exposure - which usually affects workers in industries with poor safety protocols - may lead to breathing difficulties, lung scarring, and even death.

Doctors have expressed concerns about the prognosis for affected individuals and have called for immediate intervention to prevent numbers from spiralling, such as the introduction of stringent legal requirements on silica dust exposure, better protection for workers, and more thorough monitoring. They argue that, if regulatory measures fail to reduce exposure, a ban on high-silica-content materials, similar to policies enacted in Australia, may be the only viable solution.

What Are The Potential Solutions?

Lessons from early 20th-century public health reforms suggest that reducing or eliminating silica exposure can be achieved through legal and operational changes, such as:

- Minimising workers' exposure to silica dust.

- Improving ventilation standards to reduce inhalation.

- Mandating training and educational programmes for employers and employees on the dangers of silica hazards.

- Establishing strict occupational health standards and empowering inspectors to monitor adherence to regulations.

Why A Ban May Not Be Enough

Professor Paul Cullinan from Imperial College London warns that, while a ban would help reduce the risk of exposure to silica dust, it may not be sufficient on its own. A multifaceted approach, he argues, is needed which encompasses robust public health messaging, community education initiatives, and new legislation. Addressing factors such as the number of individuals at risk, accurate early diagnosis, and clear health messaging could significantly impact the disease’s incidence. Combined with better education, these measures could inform at-risk populations, including employers and workers, and encourage the adoption of better health practices and safer workplaces.

Don’t Delay: Take Immediate Action To Protect Your Staff

In the meantime, it’s crucial that employers take immediate action to protect their workers from the dangers of silicosis. Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) can be highly effective in eliminating particles of silica from inhaled air, giving workers confidence that they are protected from deadly diseases while operating in potentially dangerous environments.

RPE must be professionally face fit tested (FFT) to prevent tiny gaps from forming around the seal of the mask. At Fire Safe International, we provide expert FFT training to ensure you meet your legal responsibilities towards your employees. Simply book your place on our qualitative fit test course today.