News and Knowledge

Silicosarcoidosis: New Occupational Lung Disease Linked to Silica Exposure

Researchers at National Jewish Health and partners in Colorado, Illinois, Taiwan, and Israel have added the new term ‘Silicosarcoidosis’ to the medical language.     The term refers to patients showing characteristics of silicosis and sarcoidosis, severe pulmonary diseases. Caused by occupational exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS), commonly found in mining, construction, and engineered…

Noise-induced hearing loss and workplace claims – Deaf Awareness Week (5th-11th May)

Deaf Awareness Week 2025 in the UK is centred around the theme ‘Beyond Silence,’ which promotes understanding of the diverse communication methods used by deaf individuals. It calls for improved accessibility, greater inclusivity, and equal opportunities.     One related issue is noise-induced hearing loss, with workplace injuries being a significant external cause. Raising awareness…

Over 300 soldiers suffer hearing loss and damaging effects of vibrations after Ajax trial injuries

The Army’s £5.5 billion investment into the Ajax armoured fighting vehicle programme 2010 has been delayed due to criticism from the National Audit Office, Defence select committee, and Public Accounts committee.   The delay included problems with the programme’s management as well as the development of excessive vibration and noise, which raises concerns regarding the…

Self-employed contractor sentenced for uncontrolled Asbestos spread, endangering workers and homeowners

A self-employed roofing contractor, Stephen Wilks, has been ordered to conduct unpaid labour following the uncontrolled spread of asbestos in a customer’s back garden, exposing two young employees and nearby homeowners to significant risk.   Video footage from a doorbell camera revealed portions of an old garage roof being disposed of with a lack of…

Global Asbestos Awareness Week – HSE reminds businesses to monitor asbestos

As we step into Global Asbestos Awareness Week (April 1-7), The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) is reminding businesses occupying buildings built before the year 2000 to assess, manage and monitor asbestos risks.   Between 1950 and 1980, asbestos was commonly used in buildings and equipment. However, buildings built or refurbished before 2000 could also…

London property developer fined over £88,000 after facing serious scrutiny from Health and Safety Executive (HSE)

A London property developer, Nofax Enterprises Limited, based in Maldon, Essex, has been fined £88,000 after facing serious scrutiny from Britain’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE).   The four-storey building site, located on Dalston Lane, was intended to house nine flats and a youth club on the basement floor. The Health and Safety Executive investigated…

Asbestos dangers suffer a lack of awareness, research reveals

New research has revealed that almost half of UK tradespeople don’t regard asbestos as a modern-day issue, with over a quarter of those surveyed admitting to ignoring correct removal procedures upon encountering it.   Training provider, High Speed Training, conducted a survey in September 2024. It questioned 500 tradespeople about asbestos, and the results found…

MoD launches investigation into aircrew cancers following helicopter allegations

The government has launched an investigation into the number of military personnel diagnosed with cancer, following claims that some helicopters exposed aircrew to toxic fumes.   At least six cases have already been settled out of court by the Ministry of Defence (MoD), and numerous other service members and their families are believed to be…

Silicosis: Do’s and don’ts for installing stone worktops according to HSE

The Health and Safety regulator has issued new, simplified advice for workers and employers who deal with engineered stone.   The newly published document has been issued after increasing concerns around workers inhaling stone dust – causing long-term and incurable health issues such as silicosis.     The Health and Safety Executive’s (HSE) guidance is…

Company fined after repeated wood dust safety failures

Timbercraft Windows & Doors recently received a £4,000 fine after it was found that it had repeatedly failed to protect workers from wood dust exposure.   Timbercraft Windows & Doors Limited, based in Essex, has received three visits from the health and Safety Executive (HSE) over the course of a twelve year period.    …