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Substances

Respirable crystalline silica

Also called silica dust, RCS, concrete dust, stone dust, brick dust.

Fine dust released when concrete, brick, stone and engineered stone are cut, ground or drilled. Causes silicosis, lung cancer and COPD. The exposure limit is very low and is easily exceeded in minutes of dry cutting.

Last reviewed 8 September 2026

Hazard data from HSE EH40 and HSE guidance, checked 8 September 2026. Confirm the concentration and form against the supplier data sheet for the product you use.

Do a COSHH assessment for Respirable crystalline silicaSilica dust COSHH template and example

Identification

CAS number14808-60-7
Physical formdust
Signal wordNone
PictogramsNone
Routes of exposureinhalation

Hazard classification

    Hazard statements

      Workplace exposure limit

      Reference periodppmmg/m³
      Long term (8 hour TWA)—0.1

      Respirable fraction. The Carc notation applies where the silica is generated by a work process.

      Carries a carcinogen notation (Carc) in EH40. Exposure must be reduced as low as is reasonably practicable and the stricter COSHH duties for carcinogens apply.

      COSHH status

      Listed as a carcinogen in EH40 Table 1. HSE expects water suppression or on-tool extraction plus RPE (at least FFP3) for cutting and grinding. Health surveillance is required for regular exposure.

      Common uses

      • Cutting, grinding and drilling concrete, brick, stone and mortar
      • Chasing walls
      • Demolition
      • Dry sweeping

      First aid

      Inhaled: fresh air. Persistent cough or breathlessness needs medical assessment.

      In an emergency call 999. For advice call NHS 111. Always follow section 4 of the safety data sheet for the product you have.

      Storage

      Not applicable.

      Sources

      We do not host or copy manufacturer safety data sheets. Ask your supplier for the current sheet for the product you use.