Effective Control Measures

Controlling silica dust exposure is critical to protect your workforce and comply with UK health and safety regulations.

• Implement wet cutting or wet suppression techniques to reduce airborne dust.
• Use local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems close to dust generation points.
• Provide appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) and ensure proper fit testing.
• Carry out regular workplace air monitoring and health surveillance for workers.
• Train employees on the risks and safe handling of silica-containing materials.
• Enforce stringent housekeeping practices including damp wiping and vacuuming with HEPA filters.

Protecting Against Liability and Financial Losses

Silica dust-related diseases can result in costly compensation claims, legal costs, and reputational damage. Worker health claims typically involve long-tail liabilities arising years after exposure. Having appropriate insurance can protect your business from unforeseen financial exposure.

• Employers' Liability Insurance covers worker claims for occupational illnesses such as silicosis.
• Public Liability Insurance protects against third-party claims including contractors and visitors affected by silica dust.
• Product Liability may be relevant if manufactured items cause health issues.
• Business Interruption Insurance safeguards against lost income from enforced production halts due to contamination or health investigations.
• Legal Expenses Insurance supports costs of legal defence and regulatory proceedings.

Occupational Lung Disease Claims

Claims related to silicosis, COPD, and lung cancer are often complex due to latency periods and the need to establish workplace causation. These can result in significant compensation payouts and legal expenses for manufacturers who do not manage silica risks properly.

• Long latency periods often mean claims arise years after exposure.
• Evidence of exposure levels and control measures crucial for defence.
• Employers have strict duties to protect workers and record exposures.

• Coverage for claims related to silica dust exposure and occupational illnesses
• Legal defence costs against compensation and regulatory claims
• Business interruption protection due to enforced shutdowns or remedial works
• Cover for the cost of medical surveillance and worker health programmes
• Support for compliance with UK health and safety obligations