Ireland

Changes were implemented following the hierarchy of prevention measures: • Elimination and substitution: the project team worked closely with designers to identify construction solutions that do not involve silica. Silica-containing blockwork was replaced with Metsec walls (light-gauge metal infill walling) and plasterboard, and other dust-generating procedures were also replaced (for instance the use of MDF floors) to reduce general dust levels. Moreover, pod bathrooms, assembled in a controlled factory environment, were used, so no onsite tiling or grouting was required. Shot-fixing was used instead of overhead drilling, significantly reducing the amount of dust produced, and any units made of silica-containing materials were pre-cast, eliminating the need to cut into these materials on site. This pre-casting was informed by building information modelling, which allowed the project team to identify exactly where openings were required in concrete units. These adjustments to the traditional construction design significantly reduced the use of silica-containing materials and the need to carry out silica-generating activities on construction sites. • Technical control measures: the company stipulated to sub-contractors at the procurement stage that RCS dust extraction methods should be used. A partnership with, a manufacturer of professional tools for the construction industry enabled 95 % of sub-contractors to purchase extraction units for their tools. Other measures to minimise dust included vacuuming, water suppression and the covering of lorries. • Personal protection: full face masks suitable for protection against RCS dust were provided. To ensure that these were used and fitted correctly, training was given and information boards explaining how to use them were placed at strategic locations on construction sites. Training and awareness raising were critical to the success of the project. The issue of RCS dust was covered in online and site-specific induction materials, and further promoted on posters in canteens and on safety notice boards. The topic was also highlighted in toolbox talks — short safety discussions held daily before the start of shifts — and safety stand-downs, where normal work was paused so that everyone on the construction sites could focus on the risks posed by RCS dust and how to prevent them.

Level of Education: Continuing vocational education and training

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