Since July 2023 HSEâs inspectors have been checking that dutyholders know the risks associated with silica dust and have effective controls in place to keep workers safe and protect their respiratory health.  The inspections focus on the respiratory risks of RCS, a natural substance found in most stone, rocks, sand and clay, and in products such as bricks and concrete. When these materials are manufactured, they can produce RCS particles or silica dust.  Silica dust can cause irreversible, often fatal lung disease if breathed in.    HSEâs targeted inspection initiative is focusing on businesses that carry out foundry activities. We are also undertaking evaluation visits to businesses which manufacture bricks, stone and concrete.  Our campaign website has advice for employers and workers on how to to protect respiratory health.  HSE has launched a new campaign to highlight the risk of asbestos in buildings and raise awareness of the legal duty to manage those risks. The duty to manage asbestos ensures workers and building users are protected from the risks of exposure to asbestos. It applies to a range of non-domestic buildings, including premises like factories, warehouses, offices and shops; and public buildings like hospitals, schools, premises used for religious worship, museums and libraries.  A few simple questions can help identify if you have a legal duty to manage asbestos.  Further information and resources The campaign provides dutyholders with a range of resources. You can: download the asbestos management plan template and the asbestos register template for your buildings   watch our video explaining the steps to the duty to manage asbestos in buildings read the campaign press release
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