HSE Reports Enforcement Notices At 38% Of Inspected Engineered-Stone Businesses

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has reported formal enforcement notices at 38% of businesses inspected during its engineered-stone campaign in Great Britain. The 20 October bulletin says inspectors have visited more than 400 businesses since the campaign began earlier this year.

The findings concern businesses working with engineered stone, a material commonly used for kitchen worktops and bathroom surfaces. HSE says inspections continue each week.

Findings From The Inspected Sites

A further 18% of inspected businesses received written advice for contraventions. HSE describes these as cases requiring action where the concerns were not serious enough to warrant an enforcement notice.

The remaining 44% were fully complying with the guidance, and HSE had not needed to take action. These percentages describe the inspected sites so far. The bulletin does not present them as an estimate for every engineered-stone business in Great Britain.

Silica Exposure Remains The Campaign Focus

HSE identifies respirable crystalline silica as the health hazard associated with engineered stone. Cutting or grinding silica-containing materials can produce fine dust that is harmful when inhaled.

The bulletin links to HSE’s guidance on controlling exposure when working with engineered stone. It reports inspection outcomes and continuing enforcement activity, rather than announcing a new exposure limit or a ban.