be ready.
HSE enforcement around silica dust is increasing. We can help you check your controls, specify the right equipment and close any gaps — before an inspection does it for you.
Speak to Your Account Manager500+ Deaths every year Construction workers die annually from silica-related disease in the UK. | 500k+ Workers exposed Over half a million workers are exposed to respirable silica dust each year. | 100% Preventable Silicosis is incurable — but entirely preventable with the right controls in place. |
Silica dust: the risk that does not announce itself.
Respirable silica dust is released whenever concrete, stone, brick or mortar is cut, ground or drilled. The particles are fine enough to pass through standard dust masks. They are invisible to the naked eye. They settle in the lungs — and they stay there.
The HSE estimates over 500 construction workers die each year from silica-related disease. Silicosis — the lung condition caused by prolonged exposure — is incurable. It is also entirely preventable, with the right controls in place.
The HSE has announced over 1,000 inspection visits focused on dust control across Great Britain over the next twelve months. Contractors who can demonstrate the right extraction class, maintained equipment and trained teams are in a strong position.
M-Class vs H-Class
Not all dust extraction equipment is the same. The classification defines the filtration performance — and the tasks it is rated to handle. Using the wrong class means the dust you are trying to capture is getting through.
Minimum required standard M-Class Performance standard for hazardous construction dust The minimum standard for hazardous construction dust, including silica. Required for cutting, grinding and drilling concrete, stone, brick and mortar.
| Maximum protection H-Class For carcinogenic and toxic dusts Designed for the most hazardous and carcinogenic dusts — including engineered stone, which can contain up to 95% crystalline silica. Meets all M-Class requirements and exceeds them.
Required for engineered stone worktops, which can contain up to 95% crystalline silica. |
Not sure which applies to your site? Speak to your account manager for advise. We will give you a straight answer. | Speak to an Advisor |
M-Class and H-Class from V-Tuf
We stock a range of M-Class and H-Class dust extraction equipment from V-Tuf. All products are clearly classified — so you can specify with confidence.
Not sure where to start?
Your account manager can help you check whether your current dust extraction setup meets the standard for the tasks on your site. It is a short conversation — and it is much easier to close a gap before an inspection than after one.
Call us 7am–5pm, Monday–Friday | Email us |