A father-of-three who was given weeks to live has died after inhaling ‘lethal’ dust from kitchen worktops in his job.
Marek Marzec, 48, originally from Poland, had been working as a stoneworker in the UK since 2012.
Having cut kitchen worktops in ‘appalling working conditions’ throughout his career, he eventually developed silicosis - a long-term lung disease caused by the inhalation of large amounts of crystalline silica dust.
The disease had reached such an advanced stage that he was given just weeks to live at the end of October.
Why is RPE the last resort or last line of protection?
RPE can only protect the wearer. Control measures at source (at the point where hazardous substances are released into workplace air), such as local exhaust ventilation or enclosures, protect all those working in the area.
So, only use or provide RPE as a last line of choice for respiratory protection. Consider other control measures before deciding upon RPE.
https://www.hse.gov.uk/respiratory-protective-equipment/faq.htm#before-providing-rpe-employees