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HSA launches inspection campaign focusing on silica dust in Construction

Friday 6th June 2025

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) will begin a two-week National Inspection Campaign on Monday 9th June focusing on silica dust exposure in construction. The campaign aims to highlight the serious risks associated with exposure to silica dust, which can occur anywhere that concrete, stone, or sand-based materials are being used. 

Exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust at work can cause silicosis, lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and other serious diseases. Silicosis is a progressive, incurable lung disease caused by inhaling fine silica dust particles that damage and scar lung tissue. Symptoms include persistent coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue, and an increased number of respiratory infections. Over time, the body can no longer get enough oxygen to sustain vital organs, resulting in reduced quality of life and increased likelihood of premature death.

During this campaign, inspectors will focus on activities known to generate silica dust, such as cutting, grinding, drilling, and demolition of materials like concrete, stone, and brick. They will assess whether appropriate control measures are in place, to eliminate exposure where possible, and then to reduce exposure. Controls may include water suppression, on-tool dust extraction, containment methods, and the proper use of respiratory protective equipment (RPE) and personal protective equipment (PPE).

Speaking about the campaign, Joan Flynn, Senior Inspector, HSA, said,

"Addressing occupational health risks in the construction sector is a strategic priority for the HSA.

While the impact of occupational illnesses may not be immediately visible, the long-term consequences are just as serious. The safety, health, and well-being of workers is our top concern. This campaign aims to increase awareness among employers and workers of the health implications of exposure. These risks can be reduced by ensuring adequate control measures are in place and promoting a culture of proactive health management on construction sites.”

Flynn added,

“We urge all employers to take occupational health risks seriously and provide the necessary controls to ensure employees remain healthy, ideally prevention of exposure and followed by containment, information, training, appropriate equipment to reduce exposure at source, RPE/PPE, and health surveillance.”

Further information on Silica can be found at: