AUDIO NEWS: Widows warn about dangers of silica dust and installers getting pushed out of heat pump market
Posted: Tuesday, November 12th, 2024
The widows of two stonemasons from West Yorkshire issued a warning about the dangers of silica dust and have called for employers to do more to protect workers. The men from Bradford, developed silicosis, a long term lung condition caused by inhaling large amounts of crystalline dust. HSE calls the dust “the single biggest risk to construction workers after asbestos.” Lawyers from Irwin Mitchell managed to secure settlements for both families and recovered costs for the Marie Curie Hospice care the men received. The legal firm also launched a Silica Exposure Register where workers can record their exposure to silica dust. -- The government is being urged to re-examine the Boiler Upgrade Scheme to encourage more small installers to get involved. A Freedom of Information request by the Energy and Utilities Alliance showed that a third of heat pump installations have been completed by just 10 firms. Mike Foster, CEO of the trade body, warned that installers were at risk of being squeezed out of the market, as the opportunities are hoovered by a few big businesses. --- Brick and concrete block manufacturer Forterra is planning to pass on the recent increase in Employers National Insurance contributions to its customers. The firm has written to customers outlining its plans and will assess if the market will accept the cost increase. --- To listen to the construction news please click below
Trending Stories
-
Essex electrician has roundabout signs rejected
A sparkie’s bid to sponsor signs on two roundabouts has been refused by planning chiefs who described them as “clutter”
-
Barbie caused a ‘worldwide’ shortage of pink paint
Barbie needed so much fluorescent pink paint that it caused a worldwide supply shortage for an entire company
-
Builders find body of man murdered in the 1960s and buried in back garden
A woman who bought a South London house was left horrified after builders discovered the body of a man murdered in the 1960s and buried in her garden 14 months after she moved in
-
'Government insulation scheme ruined my home'
A home-owner said his flat has been ruined by black mould caused by a government "green" insulation schem
-
Builder celebrates lottery win by buying his coworkers bacon butties
A builder from Milford Haven who won big on the lottery celebrated his victory by treating all his workmates to a round of bacon rolls
Comments
Add a comment