HSE Announces Major Action – No Dry Cutting of Engineered Stone
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has introduced a significant number of measures aimed at protecting workers from exposure to engineered stone dust, following growing concerns about cases of silicosis, a serious and preventable lung disease caused by breathing in silica dust.
New Guidance Issued
The HSE has published new guidance for the engineered stone industry. The guidance clearly states that dry cutting of engineered stone is unacceptable and confirms that water suppression methods should be used to control dust and comply with legal requirements.
Nationwide Inspections Underway
To support the new guidance, the HSE has launched a nationwide inspection programme. Over the next 12 months, inspectors will carry out more than 1,000 visits to fabrication businesses across Great Britain. Businesses that fail to meet the required standards can expect enforcement action, with inspections already underway.
What Employers Need to Do & How Can We Assist?
Alongside the announcement, the HSE has published its first Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) guidance sheet specifically for engineered stone. The guidance reminds employers of their legal duties, including:
- Using lower-silica engineered stone where possible.
- Using on-tool water suppression systems.
- Controlling mist generated during cutting processes.
- Providing suitable respiratory protective equipment (RPE).
- Carrying out regular health surveillance for workers.
The HSE has made it clear that these measures are legal requirements and will be a key focus of future inspections.
How Can We Assist?
Here at BSA, we can help you with COSHH & Risk Assessments across a wide range of hazardous substances, including specialist support for those working with engineered stone, where the risks from respirable crystalline silica dust require particularly careful management.
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Key Findings
HSE’s research found that dry fabrication can expose workers to respirable crystalline silica levels five to ten times higher than those produced by wet cutting methods. The research also highlighted that lower-silica engineered stone products are available without compromising quality, providing a safer alternative for businesses.
Mike Calcutt, Deputy Director in HSE’s Engagement and Policy Division, said:
“Today’s guidance marks our most significant intervention in the engineered stone sector to date, and not without good reason.
“Silicosis is incurable, but it is entirely preventable. No worker should lose their life to a lung disease caused by their job, and that is why we have taken this action.
“We have spent the past two years conducting extensive research and industry engagement to understand the scale of this risk. What we found was stark. Many businesses are not putting the right controls in place, they are still using engineered stone with high silica content, and dry cutting, which must stop.
“To every employer in this sector: the guidance is now published, the expectations are clear, and our inspectors are coming. Those who are cutting corners are not just putting their workers at risk — they are undercutting the businesses doing things properly. We will create a level playing field.
“To workers handling engineered stone: know your rights and know the controls that should be keeping you safe. If you have concerns, contact HSE.”