Agreement will protect workers from silica dust

Certain construction, building materials and related transport workers are to be protected from breathing potentially hazardous crystalline silica dust by a voluntary health and safety agreement between EU employer and employee organisations.

The dust causes silicosis, a potentially fatal lung condition. Signatories have agreed to implement a constantly updated list of good health and safety practices.

Sectors covered include: those handling, storing and producing aggregates; cement, glass and ceramic production; and the stone, mortar and pre-cast concrete sectors.

The agreement suggests a site team leader should be appointed to monitor the application of good practices. Medical files should be established for all staff, including a medical examination of the thorax.

The agreement will be reviewed after four years.

[Contract Journal, 1 June 2006, p 4]