Silica Dust Resources for Employees
7 Things You Need to Know:
1. When we say ‘Silica dust’ we mean Respirable
Crystaline Silica (RCS).
2. Silica Dust (RCS) is Deadly – In fact, hundreds
of people die from Silicosis each year.
3. Exposure to Silica can cause Silicosis.
Silicosis is a debilitating and fatal disease, that
causes inflammation and scarring which ultimately
reduces the lungs’ ability to take in oxygen.
4. Silica dust can also cause COPD, lung cancer,
tuberculosis, kidney disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
5. Silica Dust (RCS) is a naturally occurring substance which can be found in a number of materials, such as: Granite Concrete Slate Tile Brick Plaster When these materials are cut, drilled, sanded, grinded or polished it creates an abundance of respirable crystalline silica dust particles.
6. RCS particles are 100 times smaller than a grain of sand, meaning that they aren’t visible to the human eye - Just because you can’t see it, doesn’t mean it is safe!
7. RCS is being likened to Asbestos – it is highly dangerous, yet over 600,000 workers are still being exposed to silica dust each year – Don’t be one of them.​​​
Click video to turn on sound
So, What is an Employee's Responsibility Regarding RCS (Respirable Crystaline Silica)?
We have used the 'RACE' framework to help employees understand their responsibilities.​​​
R
Risk Assessment
Your management team are responsible for ensuring Risk Assessments are undertaken and that effective control measures are put in place to protect workers from Silica Dust - however these systems aren't always perfect.
As you are working on site every day, you have the power to provide critical frontline insights. You know whether the measures that have been put in place are practical, and you can highlight issues for management's consideration. Your input is important, so remember to speak up!
A
Awareness
​​
When your management team give toolbox talks or share information about silica dust, please ensure you listen to (or read) the information given. There are new developments in technology every day, so you don't want to miss something that could protect your health. Also, remember to share your knowledge with younger staff who might not be aware of the risks to their health. Raising awareness and sharing best practice is the best way to keep everyone protected.
C
Control
​​
It is the company's responsibility to provide you with control measures (Eg. LEV & RPE) to protect you from exposure to Silica - But, it is your responsibility to follow the guidance given to you and use the equipment inline with your training.
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Ensure you know where the equipment is stored, how it is set-up, how it is operated, and how to check/ clean/ maintain the unit - If you don't know, ask!
E
Evaluation
It is management's responsibility to ensure the control measures they have specified are effective, and the only way they can do this is by arranging regular health assessments for staff. The objective behind a silicosis health assessment, is to check that your lung health has not deteriorated since your last assessment. If it has, it could suggest that the control measures have not been effective and they must intervene immediately.
​
Your responsibility is to attend the health surveillance appointments scheduled for you and report any new or unusual symptoms. If you need health support inbetween assessments, you are entitled to ask for help.
Download our Posters to Remind Employees of their Responsibilities
(Click the images to download a PDF copy)
Further Information for Employees
Guidance on Using Local Exhaust Ventilation Equipment (LEV):
Your employer should provide specific training for the equipment you have on site, but if you are looking for some general information about how LEV systems work, please watch the below video and download the corresponding PDF.
Click to turn on sound.
Click image to download.
Guidance on Using Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE):
This video has been filmed by BSIF and the HSE to help you understand how to correctly wear a mask, so that it properly protects you from hazards such as Silica Dust.
Remember: Your employer is responsible for providing a face-fit respirator BUT YOU are responsible for checking it on a daily basis and keeping it in good condition. You must make your employer aware if your RPE becomes worn or faulty.
Click to turn on sound.
Click to download full copy.
BOHS Silica Guidance for Specific Job Roles:
