Silica Dust Mock Trial: When Risk Management Fails
An Online Mock Trial Event | Monday 19 October 2026 | 11:30am – 2:00pm
Every year, thousands of UK construction workers are exposed to risks caused by silica dust; a risk generated by everyday activities like cutting kerbstones, brick, and concrete. Many employers have basic policies and procedures in place to control the risk, but are they doing enough?
Join us for our lawyer-led Mock Trial, run by Emma Bowens of Bowens Solutions Limited, who is joined by Dr Scott McGibbon of Pvotal Consultancy to consider this significant risk in more detail.
Watch as a construction company and its manager face prosecution following the death of a worker. Their diagnosis was silicosis, and we find that the company’s procedures, and the managers handling of the situation was not as it should have been
During this Mock Trial we will:
- Review what silica dust is and why the associated risks need to be controlled
- Consider appropriate compliance standards to control the risks
- Hear testimony from Dr Scott McGibbon on practical approaches to managing risks
- Consider the occupational health monitoring required
- See the impact of a silicosis diagnosis and consider how companies should react
- Help you reflect on your own processes and consider whether changes need to be made
Reserve your place now!
Emma Bowens is a Regulatory Lawyer, representing companies and individuals investigated and prosecuted by the Police and HSE.
Dr Scott McGibbon is a former stonemason, contractor, lecturer and researcher who has a unique and practical insight into the risks associated with silica dust in construction projects.