Silicosis and the engineered stone and kitchen worktop industry

That this House expresses deep concern at the growing number of workers diagnosed with silicosis linked to exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust in the engineered stone and kitchen worktop industry; notes the findings highlighted by the i Paper’s Killer Kitchens campaign regarding unsafe dry cutting practices and the serious health consequences faced by stonemasons and fabrication workers; welcomes the recent action taken by the Health and Safety Executive, including updated guidance prohibiting dry cutting without water suppression measures and a programme of workplace inspections; further notes calls from clinicians, occupational health specialists and campaigners for improved health surveillance, a national screening programme, stronger enforcement action against rogue employers, and the inclusion of silicosis as a reportable disease under RIDDOR; recognises concerns regarding delays in access to Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit for terminally ill workers; and calls on the Government to strengthen protections for workers exposed to silica dust and ensure that no worker’s life is put at risk through unsafe workplace practices.