The incidence of ill-health in textile factories can be reduced by controlling dust levels to set limits. The paper describes how the level and status of the limit for cotton dust are being changed, in consultation with industry and epidemiologists to reflect a move from static to personal workplace sampling methods. The proposed new limit will be raised from 0.5 to 2.5 mg/m³, although it is not intended to change the level of worker protection. Independently a new limit for wool process dust is being set following research into health effects from occupational exposure. The paper distinguishes the legal status of the 2 kinds of UK limit (OES and MEL) and mentions the new UK industry health and safety consultative body TEXIAC-Textiles Industry Advisory Committee.