In this special episode of The kbbreview Podcast, host Andrew Davies speaks exclusively to Mike Calcutt, Deputy Director in the HSE’s Engagement and Policy Division, about the regulator’s major update to its guidance on engineered stone fabrication and silica dust exposure.

With silicosis cases rising globally, and Australia already banning engineered stone outrigh, the UK industry is now facing tougher expectations around water suppression, mist extraction, respiratory protection and health surveillance.

Calcutt explains why HSE believes there is now “no scope” for dry cutting engineered stone, how the regulator plans to inspect more than 1,000 workplaces over the coming months, and why the new guidance stops short of introducing a full ban on high-silica materials.

We also discuss the responsibilities of fabricators, suppliers and kitchen retailers, the growing push towards lower-silica products, and whether this is the end of the debate or just the beginning...

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