It is not just the HSE that is forming the imperative for masonry companies to change the way they work. It is also the compensation culture.

Mather & Ellis in Manchester know the cost of compensation because they have been sued by two employees who claimed vibration and dust injuries - and it is high enough for them not to want to publicise it because they do not want to encourage further claims in other companies.

The compensation was paid by the insurance company, but, of course, insurance costs more these days following the hikes after the 9/11 terrorist attack in the USA and insurance companies do not look kindly on paying compensation to injured workers.

And that is not the only cost. Since the claims, Mather & Ellis have re-equipped with CNC machines and restrict the use of pneumatic tools to an hour at a time. The masons have individual, heated work stations with waterwall dust extractors and air helmets. They are regularly checked for HAVS and lung damage.