Builders could see sites shut without warning if they breach a new ban on the dry cutting of engineered stone, the Federation of Master Builders (FMB) has cautioned, as the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) rolls out a wide-ranging inspection programme at over 1,000 locations.

The HSE says dry cutting engineered stone, including popular quartz worktops, is unacceptable because it releases dangerous levels of silica dust that can cause silicosis, an incurable and potentially fatal lung disease.

Inspectors are now visiting both construction sites and stone fabrication workshops, with any firm found in breach facing an immediate Prohibition Notice that halts work on the spot.

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The FMB warns many smaller contractors may be unaware of the intensity of the clampdown or the potential consequences, especially as demand for engineered stone continues to rise alongside home renovations.

Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the Federation of Master Builders, said: "If you're caught cutting engineered stone dry, your site could be shut down immediately. This is about preventing life-threatening illness - but it also puts huge pressure on small firms who may not know that the rules have changed. The message is: comply now or risk facing the consequences. There is support for our members on our website. Silicosis is entirely preventable, yet it is still cutting lives short in construction. We have seen the devastating impact of exposure to hazardous materials, with people losing their chance at a healthy retirement due to diseases like mesothelioma. These are avoidable tragedies. No one should be put at risk just for doing their job."

The FMB also highlighted the financial risks. For small firms, a shutdown can mean missed deadlines, breached contracts and hefty penalties, with costs escalating quickly.

Builders are urged to act at once and abandon outdated practices. Even brief periods of dry cutting can produce hazardous concentrations of airborne silica dust.