Posted By Paul Leadbetter Richa HSE have said that they will be publishing a discussion of the link between respirable crystalline silica and cancer as EH75/5 but I haven't been able to track it down, yet. A Google search will turn up more information that you can shake a stick at! Paul

Posted By Jonathan Breeze Richa, Unfortunately the situation is muddied by the the following factors: 1) Silica comes in more than one form but respirable crystalline silica is generally considered the worst. 2) While some sources acknowledge the possibility of cancer, silicosis is probably the more immediate threat if your using industrial quantities. 3) Silica is a naturally occurring substance contained in most rocks and sand. Not withstanding the above, you should follow the HSE published guidance referred to by previous posters but watch out for further future developments.