15 November is World COPD Day. COPD describes a number of breathing problems where there is damage to the breathing tubes and air sacs within the lung.⯠Breathing in dusts, fumes, chemicals or gases in the workplace may cause serious long term lung damage. This includes exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) released into the air when handling sand and cutting stone, brick or tiles.  We have further information on COPD and advice for employers and workers to protect respiratory health on our Dust Kills campaigns website.  If you,â¯or someone you know,â¯work inâ¯aâ¯trade orâ¯industry whereâ¯theâ¯health ofâ¯yourâ¯lungsâ¯may beâ¯affected by breathing in hazardous substances at work, share thisâ¯informationâ¯to help spread the word that occupational lung disease is preventable, and we have free advice and downloads to help protect workersâ health.Â
November is lung cancer awareness month. Every year around 12,000 people die from work-related lung diseases including lung cancer. These deaths are preventable if exposure to the risks is effectively controlled. To help control exposure to risks, view our guidance on preventing work-related lung disease.  Workers need to be aware of the health risks associated with the materials they are working with. Certain work activities,â¯such asâ¯brick and tile manufacture and cutting, stone working, and foundry work can all release silica particles in the airborne dust which are too small to be seen. Exposure to silica dustâ¯can cause lung cancerâ¯and other serious respiratory diseases that may lead to early death.   Silica particles are produced during many manufacturing tasks. Free advice for employees and employers is available to download: silica dust guide for workers (.pdf) health surveillance advice (.pdf) for those exposed to RCS
The key to preventing stress at work and supporting good mental health is making it part of routine working life and culture. HSE's Working Minds campaign promotes the principles of risk assessment, with a focus on 5 steps: reach out, recognise, respond, reflect, make it routine.    The new bitesize online learning is made up of 6 short modules that guide you step by step, with helpful tools and practical resources.   Youâll come away with an understanding of what the law requires of employers and what you need to do to be compliant.  Learn something new, refresh your existing knowledge or share with others to spread the word and help drive change.  Register and get started today  | 