Stonemasons warned about silicosis

Posted on January 23^rd 2008

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has issued a warning to stonemasons and quarry firms of the dangers of a condition called silicosis, which can be fatal. The illness has been traced to contact with crystalline silica (RCS). It is therefore vital that companies put procedures for monitoring and prevention of exposure in place.

The HSEs Andrea Robbins stated: Breathing in the very fine dust of crystalline silica can lead to the development of silicosis, which in its most acute form can result in premature death. It is vital employers monitor dust levels to assess the risk of exposure of employees to RCS, and that they put control measures in place to reduce the levels to which employees are exposed... In particular, companies who generate stone dust, which contains silica, should take precautions to protect their employees health. Trades most at risk include stonemasons and quarry workers.

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