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Written question asked by Margaret Mullane (Labour) on Tuesday, 11 November 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 13 November 2025. It was answered by Stephen Timms (Labour) on Wednesday, 26 November 2025 on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.


Silicosis: Health Hazards

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what recent assessment she has made of trends in the level of silicosis among workers.

Answer

The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) uses the Surveillance of Work-related and Occupational Respiratory Disease (SWORD) database to monitor trends in cases of silicosis.

HSE uses SWORD data that is reported voluntarily by around 350 physicians of respiratory disease to monitor cases of silicosis arising from work activity. HSE continues to monitor the number of cases recorded on the SWORD database.

Over the period from January 2024 to October 2025 HSE has seen an increased trend in notifications of silicosis on SWORD. HSE will continue to work with trade associations, material suppliers and manufacturers of products about their legal responsibilities and will continue to carry out a range of activities to raise awareness.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
90002
Session
2024-26
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Health hazards Silicosis
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk