Oldham workers warned over rise in deadly silica dust disease

Workers across Oldham and Greater Manchester are being warned about the dangers of silica dust exposure, as concerns grow over the number of people developing a serious and irreversible lung disease known as silicosis.

Silica dust is produced when materials such as stone, brick, concrete and quartz are cut, drilled or ground, activities commonly carried out in construction, demolition, manufacturing and stonemasonry. 

Medical experts say the disease can take many years to develop, meaning workers may not realise they have been affected until long after the exposure has taken place. 

While official figures record relatively small numbers of silicosis deaths each year in the UK, occupational health experts believe the true scale of the problem may be far greater. Research suggests thousands of deaths from respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer may be linked to past exposure to silica dust. 

Steve Evans, specialist industrial disease lawyer at WE Solicitors said: "Many workers were historically exposed to dangerous levels of dust without adequate protection or warnings about the long-term health risks.  

Silicosis is a devastating condition that can leave people struggling to breathe and unable to work. Unfortunately, many workers across industries such as construction and manufacturing were exposed to silica dust for years without proper safety measures in place. 

“What is particularly concerning is that the disease can take decades to develop, meaning people may only now be discovering that their breathing problems are linked to work they did many years ago.” 

Workers most at risk include builders, stonemasons, quarry workers, demolition workers and those involved in cutting or installing stone and quartz kitchen worktops. 

Symptoms can include persistent coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest tightness. In severe cases, silicosis can lead to permanent lung damage and an increased risk of lung cancer. 

WE Solicitors is urging anyone in the Oldham area who worked in dusty environments and is now experiencing breathing problems to seek medical advice and consider whether their illness may be linked to workplace exposure. 

The firm says that in many cases compensation claims can still be made even if the employer no longer exists, as historic insurance policies may still cover the liability. 

Anyone concerned about possible work-related lung disease can contact WE Solicitors for confidential advice on free phone number 0800 294 3065.