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Building industry turns spotlight on silica

Safety drive offers workplace advice

The dangers posed by silica dust to construction workers will be raised at a workplace safety event in the Island this week.

Silica occurs naturally in many building materials, but the dust released when it's disturbed is a potential serious health hazard.

Around 800 people die from lung cancer caused by breathing silica dust in Britain each year - and another 900 are diagnosed annually. 

Dust is released when you drill, saw, grind or sand materials such as stone, tiles or mortar.

A seminar on Thursday will outline how the risk to workers can be reduced.

Spotlight on Silica this Thursday (6 Oct) will be held at the Isle of Man Construction Federation, Village Walk, Onchan between 1.30-4pm, entry is free. 

The event has been organised by the Institution of Occupational Health and Safety whose president elect is Graham Parker:  

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