For some time now, workplace safety and health organisations in the UK and abroad have been raising awareness of the significant health risks of silica dust exposure, particularly the dangers of working with artificial stone and the risk of developing silicosis. In our previous article, we highlighted the growing silicosis concerns for those working with artificial stone worktops.
However, in a recent statement published by Construction News, the widow of a stoneworker who died from silicosis aged just 28, is saying more needs to be done to protect workers in the artificial stone industry. It follows the case of Wessam Al Judi, who died in May 2024 after being diagnosed with silicosis three years before.
His widow said, “My husband had worked with stone for many years yet within five years of starting to cut engineered stone he lost his life. The coroner has said he was working in terrible conditions with dust all around him and without the proper safety equipment.”
“Sadly, none of us knew at the time that this would cost him his life. More must be done straight away to protect stoneworkers before other families have to go through the terrible pain we are going through.”
In a ‘prevention of future deaths report’ released in November 2024 by the senior coroner for West London, Lydia Brown, it said that Al Jundi had developed an untreatable lung condition “probably caused by exposure to RCS in his workplace”. Although these reports are not usually released until a full inquest has concluded, the article highlights that the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is still investigating the circumstances leading to Al Jundi’s death, and the final inquest has not yet been heard.
Source: Widow calls for artificial stone action after husband’s silicosis death
Silicosis Health Risks for Workers in the UK
Silicosis is fast becoming a leading cause of death to workers in the UK, with the HSE rating it the industry’s second biggest killer after asbestos. Respirable crystalline silica (RCS), is found in a range of natural materials, including stone, rocks, sands, and clays, and can also be found in artificially engineered stone. However, one of the most concerning developments in recent years is the link between artificial stone – sometimes known as ‘quartz’ – widely used in modern kitchen and bathroom worktops and a severe, fast-progressing form of silicosis. Natural granite typically contains about 30% silica, while engineered stone typically contains 90% or more.
In January 2025, the HSE published new simplified guidance specially aimed at installers of stone worktops, as well as their managers and supervisors, to ensure they understand the steps required to control exposure risks. For further information on the HSE’s campaign, visit: HSE Stone Masonry Guide.
What Legal Obligations Do UK Employers Have Regarding Silica Exposure?
There are several strict regulatory obligations in place for employers to establish suitable arrangements for managing health and safety, and to ensure compliance with the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH). Businesses are required to implement effective control measures, including Local Exhaust Ventilation (LEV), water suppression, and personal protective equipment such as Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE) to minimise workers’ exposure to RCS. Should any health and safety violations be identified, HSE will take enforcement actions to guarantee the protection of workers’ health. However, new research is challenging long-held assumptions about “safe” levels of silica dust exposure. New evidence reveals that workers face significant health risks even when exposure remains below current regulatory limits. Read our previous article, ‘New Research Reveals Silicosis Risk Even at Low Levels of Silica Dust Exposure’.
Industrial Disease Solicitors
Have you or a loved one been affected by respiratory diseases due to occupational exposure? Our Personal Injury department offers specialised assistance through a dedicated team that focuses on occupational diseases. With our renowned expertise, we are particularly adept at aiding victims of asbestosis and other industrial diseases. Our goal is to provide comprehensive support and legal guidance to individuals facing these challenges, ensuring their rights are protected, and their voices are heard.
If you require advice and support today, either for yourself or on behalf of a family member, please do not hesitate to get in touch on 0800 987 8800 or email enquiries@bmcf.co.uk. Alternatively, fill in this contact form.
