The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) and the Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI) launched a joint all‑island inspection campaign focusing on silica dust exposure in the construction sector – running from June to the end of August 2026.
The campaign aims to highlight the serious health risks associated with exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust, which can arise during activities involving concrete, stone, brick and other sand‑based materials.
According to the HSA, exposure to silica dust can cause severe and often irreversible illnesses, including silicosis, lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Silicosis is an incurable lung disease caused by inhaling fine dust particles that damage lung tissue over time. Symptoms include persistent coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue and increased susceptibility to respiratory infections. As with other occupational health risks, the long-term effects may not be immediately visible but results in reduced quality of life and increased likelihood of premature death.
Over the course of the campaign, inspectors from the HSA and HSENI will focus on high‑risk construction activities such as cutting, grinding, drilling and demolition. These activities are known to generate hazardous silica dust if not properly controlled. Inspectors will assess whether appropriate control measures are in place to eliminate or reduce exposure. These include:
- Water suppression systems
- On‑tool dust extraction
- Containment and isolation methods
- Appropriate use of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) and personal protective equipment (PPE)
- Adequate training and health surveillance for workers.
For full details, visit: https://www.hsa.ie/news_events_media/news/press_releases_2026/hidden-killer-on-site-all-island-campaign-targets-silica-dust-in-construction/