Safety campaign targets the dangers of silica dust

Inspectors will be carrying out coordinated inspections over the next three months

A joint inspection campaign focusing on silica dust exposure in the construction sector has been launched by the Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI) and the Health and Safety Authority (HSA). 

The three-month campaign will see inspectors from both organisations carrying out coordinated inspections in a bid to save lives and protect workers. 

Silica dust remains a significant health hazard within the construction industry with HSENI figures showing an estimated 20 people die each year in Northern Ireland from lung cancer due to exposure to silica dust. 

Exposure to silica dust can cause severe and often irreversible illnesses, including silicosis, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Read more on managing the risks from silica dust. 

Inspection details 

Over the course of the campaign, inspectors from the HSENI and HSA 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 

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. 

Employers and workers are urged to use this campaign as an opportunity to review current practices and ensure compliance with health and safety requirements. 

Find out more about the HSENI and HSE silica dust campaign. 

First published 9 June 2026