Documents APPG 2 results

"We worked with the All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Respiratory Health on an inquiry into silicosis in the construction industry. The joint report, called ‘Silica – the next asbestos?', explores the risk of silica exposure to construction workers and the implications for policy makers.
Why focus on silica?
Silicosis is the most common chronic occupational lung disease worldwide. Although there's no cure, it's entirely preventable. Silica is a natural substance found in concrete, bricks, tiles and mortar – materials commonly used in construction. When ‘fractured' through processes such as stone cutting, drilling and polishing, it becomes respirable crystalline silica (RCS). Construction workers are at risk of developing silicosis when they inhale RCS over extended periods. ..."

"This is the final report from the APPG's inquiry into AI and surveillance in the workplace. The inquiry finds that AI is transforming work and working lives across the country in ways that have plainly outpaced, or avoid, the existing regimes for regulation.
In September 2021, the National AI Strategy was released and in early 2022 it will be followed with a white paper outlining the Government's position on regulation. The evidence we have considered shows that there is an urgent need to bring forward robust proposals to protect people and safeguard our fundamental values.
The APPG finds that there has been a significant increase in use of surveillance and other AI technologies that control fundamental aspects of work. The practice, tools, and ethos of the gig economy are being embedded across essential sectors without due regard for adverse impacts on work and people. There are marked gaps in legal protection at individual, collective and corporate levels. (...)"