The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) and the Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI) have begun a coordinated, all‑island inspection initiative targeting silica dust exposure within the construction industry.
The campaign draws attention to the serious long‑term health dangers posed by respirable crystalline silica, a hazardous dust released during work with materials such as concrete, stone, brick and other sand‑based products.
Running from to the end of August, inspectors from both jurisdictions will conduct joint inspections across Ireland throughout the summer.
Silica dust exposure is linked to silicosis, lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Silicosis, an incurable condition caused by inhaling fine dust particles, gradually scars lung tissue. Common symptoms include persistent coughing, breathlessness, fatigue and increased vulnerability to respiratory infections. Like many occupational illnesses, the damage often develops silently over time, ultimately reducing quality of life and increasing the risk of early mortality.
During the campaign, inspectors will concentrate on high‑risk construction tasks such as cutting, grinding, drilling and demolition, which are activities known to generate dangerous levels of silica dust when not properly controlled.
Inspectors will assess whether appropriate control measures are in place to eliminate or reduce exposure. These include:
Speaking about the joint campaign, Joan Flynn, Senior Inspector with the HSA, said,
“This joint all‑island campaign reflects our shared commitment with HSENI to address serious occupational health risks in the construction sector. Exposure to silica dust can have devastating long-term consequences for workers’ health. Through coordinated inspections over the summer period, we aim to raise awareness around elimination or substitution and ensure that effective control measures are consistently in place to protect workers across the island. Where stringent control measures are implemented, we can reduce the number of deaths in relation to occupational diseases.”
Julian Richmond, Principal Inspector with HSENI added,
“Silica dust remains a significant health hazard within the construction industry. By working collaboratively with the HSA, we are reinforcing the importance of prevention, control and ongoing vigilance in managing dust exposure risks. Employers must take responsibility for implementing appropriate controls, providing appropriate equipment and training and ensuring that workers are protected from harm at all times.”
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 www.hsa.ie and www.hseni.gov.uk
