HSE Dust and Inspections
Hazardous construction dusts are one of the main causes of disease and early death in construction workers. Every year there are thousands of cases where workers are developing irreversible lung diseases, and this is made worse or even caused by their working environment. This exposure for workers has life changing effects and can result in early death. This is unacceptable in the 21st century, as we have the resources to prevent these diseases and save lives.
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) are gearing up to visit construction sites across Great Britain this summer to inspect the working conditions of its employees. Starting on Monday15th May 2023, as part of the respiratory health intervention initiative, they will be inspecting sites, and focusing on dust control, making sure employees and workers know the risks, and are using the right controls for prevention.
The primary aim of this initiative is to ensure workers' health is protected, and to give construction sites the knowledge and guidance to ensure that effective measures, such as water suppression, extraction, and as a last resort, Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE),should be implemented in line with the hierarchy of control options.
The HSE are urging workers and employees to take the necessary precautions when working in these environments to protect their long-term lung health, and to avoid future suffering from the devastating impact dust can cause to them, and their families.
For more information, please visit the below link to learn more:
