Respirable crystalline silica is produced when cutting, drilling, grinding, or breaking concrete, sandstone, mortar, and other materials containing quartz. RCS particles are so small they penetrate deep into the lungs and cause irreversible scarring known as silicosis. Long-term exposure also significantly increases the risk of lung cancer. The workplace exposure limit for RCS is very low, and even brief unprotected exposure during common tasks like chasing walls can exceed safe levels.
Key Hazards
Silicosis causing permanent lung scarring and progressive breathing difficulty
Lung cancer from cumulative respirable crystalline silica exposure
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease developing over years of exposure
Kidney disease linked to prolonged high-level silica dust inhalation
Control Measures
Use water suppression on all cutting, drilling, and grinding tools when working with silica materials.
Fit on-tool dust extraction connected to an M-class or H-class vacuum extractor.
Select the correct RPE with an assigned protection factor suitable for the silica exposure level.
Enclose or segregate dust-generating activities from other workers wherever practicable.
Never dry sweep areas contaminated with silica dust — use a vacuum with HEPA filtration.
Ensure face-fit testing is completed and recorded for every RPE user before they wear it.
Monitor exposure levels through personal sampling to confirm controls are effective.
Attend lung function health surveillance as required by the COSHH assessment for your tasks.
Wash hands and face before eating, drinking, or smoking to prevent ingesting silica particles.
Remember
Silica dust is invisible at its most dangerous — you cannot see the particles that damage your lungs.
The workplace exposure limit for RCS is 0.1 mg/m³, which common tasks can easily exceed.
Water suppression and on-tool extraction are the most effective controls available on site.
RPE must fit your face properly to provide protection — a face-fit test is a legal requirement.
Silicosis is incurable and progressive, meaning lung damage continues even after exposure stops.
If you develop a persistent cough, breathlessness, or chest tightness, report it immediately.
Applicable Legislation: Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) · Workplace Exposure Limits (EH40) · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974