8 cases of artificial stone silicosis were reported in the UK in 2023 leading doctors to call for improved guidelines and protections for workers potentially exposed to inhalation of silica dust. Silicosis is a lung disease caused by inhaling silica dust, primarily affecting workers in industries such as mining, construction, and manufacturing.
A recent paper has also identified a severe and progressive form of silicosis linked to the cutting of artificial or engineered stone or quartz used regularly fitting kitchen worktops. A number of workers affected have started legal action in England claiming damages for personal injury as a result of their exposure to the dust and development of the disease.
Who is most at risk of developing the disease?
Those at risk are workers inhaling silica dust, and those may be working on construction or demolition, glass manufacturing, stone masonry, laving and mining.
Who may pursue a claim for damages for silicosis?
The legal cases focus on the failure of employers to risk assess the risk of exposure of workers to the silica dust and to take steps to reduce the exposure by means of ventilation, protective equipment such as masks and failure to provide warnings, training and health surveillance. Workers who have been exposed to the dust as a result of their employers failures and who then develop the condition linked to that exposure may pursue a claim for damages.
What may I claim for?
Unfortunately, there's no cure for silicosis. The condition is progressive and is potentially fatal. If you have suffered this injury linked to exposure to silica dust you may claim damages for pain and suffering, loss of earnings if you have required time off work or if you can no longer work. You may also require care and assistance due to your medical condition and have incurred other expenses. If the condition is fatal then your family members may have a claim for damages arising from your death to reflect the loss of their loved one and any loss of financial support.
What time limits do I need to be aware of?
In Scotland there are time limits upon pursuing personal injury claims. You will need to resolve any claim for damages or raise an action in court against the employer at fault no later than three years from the date of your diagnosis of the condition. If you are still being exposed to the silica, then the three years runs from the last date of exposure.
Our occupational disease specialists in the Thorntons personal injury team are highly experienced in pursuing and winning compensation for workers injured through no fault of their own. If you are being investigated by your doctors for this condition or have received a diagnosis and would like to discuss your potential claim please contact us on 0800 731 8434.
