A new campaign has been launched to promote clean air practices on construction sites to reduce long term exposure to dust and contaminated air.

The Irish Congress of Trade Unions (ICTU), the Construction Industry Federation (CIF) and the Construction Workers Health Trust have joined forces to launch the Clean Air Site Campaign which encourages construction sites to monitor air quality and use safe systems of work.

Where they do, construction companies can apply for a Clean Air Site Campaign flag to promote good practice.

Silica dust is a natural substance found in found in materials such as bricks, concrete and mortar, but can present a serious hazard to construction workers who may be exposed to it for a prolonged period.

Recommended safety measures include using filters, vacuums, water suppression and screening, as well as dampening down areas and ensuring workers are aware of the hazards associated with silica dust.

Andy Smith, Official with the Building and Allied Trades Union and ICTU representative, commended the initiative.

“The clean air flag is a simple idea sending an important message,” Mr Smith said.

“Companies displaying the flag are indicating that they are responsible employers, they care about the health and safety of their workers on site, they care about their neighbours and they care about the environment,” he added.

Sean Downey, Director of Safety, Education and Training Services with the Construction Industry Federation, described it as a really positive initiative.

“CIF are delighted to support the clean air flag project. By encouraging a focus on practical mitigation measures we can help to address those risks affecting occupational hygiene,” Mr Downey said.

The launch included the presentation of a Clean Air Site Flag by Alison Gilliland, General Manager, Construction Workers Health Trust to Walls Project Manager Gary Maher for the best practices in evidence on their Future of Learning site at UCD.

“This flag is a symbol of effective clean air practices on this Walls site and flying it on site will draw all workers’ attention to the need for good practices to be consistently maintained so as to promote clean air on site,” Ms Gilliland said.

The Clean Air Site Campaign is managed and funded by the Construction Workers Health Trust, an organisation with charitable status founded by the construction unions and committed to supporting the health of construction workers across the country.