Abstract: A brake block comprises a brake pad (1), a support body (2) and indicator device (4) for indicating when the brake pad (1) is worn down to a predetermined level (7), the indicator being visible on the support body (2) and being triggered from a first to a second state when the pad is worn to the predetermined level (7). The second state is more visible than the first state and provides a brake wear indicator which is not readily overlooked. The visible indicator is normally recessed within the confines of the brake block's backing plate or lining support so as to be substantially concealed but is spring-biassed out of the concealed state by triggering structure to be visible to indicate brake wear.