Central Scotland stoneworkers safety event aims to clear the air

Date:

27 November 2009

Release No:

SCO/213/09

Construction workers in central Scotland are being invited to an event this Monday (30 November) to find out more about protecting themselves from Silicosis − a potentially lethal lung disease caused by breathing in stone dust.

Around 10 construction workers die each week as a result of breathing in dust containing crystalline silica by cutting drilling, grinding or polishing materials like kerbing, paving blocks and concrete.

The Health and Safety Executive is teaming up with the Working Well Together campaign and Beatsons Building Supplies for the event at the independent builders merchants in Alloa.

There will be examples of the correct respiratory equipment to use; a film showing the risks and how to control them; as well as leaflets and information packs.

This is one event in a number planned across Scotland, organised by Working Well Together and supported by HSE

Pamela McKenzie of HSE commented:

"There are many practical steps employees and employers can take to reduce the risks from inhaling stone dust. Recent inspections have found workers are still carrying out stone processing work without wearing appropriate respiratory equipment. Monday's event aims to provide workers with the knowledge they need to help them protect their health."

There are many practical ways workers and employers can reduce the risks caused by stone work. These include:

• planning work properly
• providing information and training to staff
• using water to suppress dust during stonework activity
• using dust extraction on power tools
• purchasing dust-reduced materials
• wearing protective respiratory equipment

Media are invited to attend this event:

Date:

Monday 30th November

Time:

from 07.30am

Venue:

Beatsons Building Supplies, The Whins, Hall Park, Alloa FK10 3TA

Notes to editors

1. Working Well Together is an industry-wide construction health and safety campaign developed by the HSE's Construction Industry Advisory Committee (CONIAC). It is run by industry for industry. http://www.wwt.uk.com/
2. Silicosis is an irreversible lung disease that can take years to develop. Fine particles of respirable crystalline silica (RCS) cause damage and inflammation in the lungs. Over time, this leads to the formation of scar tissue (fibrosis), which shows up on chest X-rays. The main symptoms are breathing difficulties and a chronic cough which may not appear before retirement. Silicosis can be extremely disabling and lead to early death.
3. Further information on respiratory disease for employers and employees can be found at http://www.hse.gov.uk/construction/healthrisks/respiratory.htm

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Issued on behalf of the Health and Safety Executive by COI News and PR Scotland