A veteran stonemason who spent four decades working on building sites has been diagnosed with three chronic conditions linked to silica dust inhalation, prompting a warning that other construction workers could face a ticking time bomb unless rigorous safety standards are maintained.
Athol Hill, from Fife, started work aged 16 in 1986 and was using hammers and chisels on stone from day one, at a time when few, if any, safety measures were in place. Now, in 2026, he has both chronic lung disease and malignant tumours as a result of his exposure.
One in four silicosis cases linked to stonemasonry
Stonemasonry accounts for one in four reported silicosis cases in the UK, according to experts. Many workers may naively think that cutting materials outdoors means fresh air will lessen the risk, but health experts warn that safety equipment should be deployed in all conditions.
Employers on building sites need to be clear with workers of the risks involved when cutting materials such as brick, concrete, stone, asphalt and tile.
Enforcement and government backing needed
It is on enforcement agencies, backed up by the Scottish and UK Governments, to ensure construction workers in all trades are told to put their health first. Hard work should be valued, but it should never come at the expense of anyone's health.
