The End of Dry Cutting - New HSE Legislation
The HSE has issued a landmark directive making dry cutting of engineered stone officially unacceptable. An immediate inspection crackdown targets over 1,000 fabricators across the UK. Businesses not using water suppression and high-tier respiratory protection are risking both massive fines and the lives of their workers.
Why the HSE Is Acting Now
Engineered stone — widely used in kitchen worktops — can contain up to 95% crystalline silica, far more than natural granite or marble. Unlike traditional silicosis, which takes decades to develop, exposure to engineered stone dust can cause acute silicosis in a matter of months.
Dry cutting produces dust exposure levels 5 to 10 times higher than wet methods. The HSE has confirmed that water suppression is now a legal requirement — but it is not enough alone. It creates a fine mist still carrying Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS), making high-grade Respiratory Protective Equipment essential.
“ Wet-cutting must become your primary and default fabrication method for all engineered stone. The HSE now considers dry cutting unacceptable in all circumstances. Inspectors will check your equipment, tooling, and water suppression systems. Ensure all CNC machines, bridge saws, and angle grinders are fitted with adequate water suppression before any cutting begins. ”
Switch to Wet Cutting — Without Exception
“ While wet cutting dramatically reduces airborne dust, specifying engineered stone products with lower crystalline silica content provides an additional layer of protection. Ask suppliers for Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and silica content declarations for every product you stock. This documentation may also be requested by HSE inspectors as evidence of a proactive COSHH assessment. ”
Source Low-Silica Engineered Stone Where Possible
“ Standard disposable FFP3 masks are no longer considered adequate for engineered stone fabrication under updated COSHH guidance. All workers involved in cutting, grinding, polishing, or finishing engineered stone must be equipped with a Powered Air Purifying Respirator. The 3M™ Versaflo™ TR-300+ provides P3 filtration, IP53 water resistance, smart airflow alarms, and anti-fog face protection. Ensure fit testing records and maintenance logs are kept on site. ”
Upgrade All Staff to PAPR — the 3M™ Versaflo™ TR-300+
“ Health surveillance is a legal requirement under COSHH Regulation 11 for workers exposed to Respirable Crystalline Silica. This means regular lung function tests (spirometry) and health questionnaires carried out by a qualified occupational health provider. Records must be retained for 40 years. Inspectors will ask to see your health surveillance programme — ensure it covers every worker with any exposure to stone dust, however brief. ”
Schedule Regular Health Surveillance for All Exposed Workers
Silicosis is incurable — but it is 100% preventable.
