How Does Engineered Stone Cause Silicosis? 2024

Engineered stone, a popular material in countertops and other surfaces, is primarily made by crushing natural quartz crystals and binding the grounds with resin. While this material is both durable and aesthetically appealing, its manufacture carries significant health risks for the workers involved in its cutting, grinding, and polishing. So, how does engineered stone cause silicosis?

The primary concern is that engineered stone contains high levels of crystalline silica, a substance linked to a serious and potentially fatal lung disease called silicosis.

The Process of Exposure to Silica Dust

Workers who are exposed to silica dust face significant health risks, and those at the highest risk of exposure are stone fabricators, countertop installers, construction workers, and quarry workers. These individuals may be exposed to hazardous dust levels while working with engineered stone, as crystalline silica in the engineered stone breaks into fine dust particles, which can easily be inhaled into the lungs.

Crystalline silica is a naturally occurring mineral that can be found in sand, rock, and quartz. When quartz is crushed and combined with resin — in order to make engineered stone — the true danger lies in the resulting high concentration of quartz, which can make up to 90% of engineered stone’s composition. When this material is worked with — cut, polished, or ground — tiny particles of concentrated crystalline silica dust are released into the air.

Inhalation of these particles is particularly dangerous as silica dust can travel deep into the lungs, where it then causes inflammation and scarring over time. This scarring, known as fibrosis, can lead to a variety of lung problems, including silicosis, a progressive and irreversible condition.

The Link Between Engineered Stone and Silicosis

While silicosis has been a known risk in industries that utilize natural stone, the rise of engineered stone in the construction and design industries has increased the risk of silica-related diseases.

The dangers are particularly acute because the engineered stone is harder and denser than natural stone, which can result in more silica dust being released during the manufacturing and installation processes.

Additionally, many workers are not adequately protected from the dangers of silica dust exposure. Safety protocols like wearing respirators, using proper ventilation systems, and regularly monitoring air quality are essential — but may not always be in place. Without these proper safety measures, workers are at an increased risk of developing silicosis.

The Risks for Workers in Different Industries

Several industries are particularly affected by exposure to silica dust from engineered stone:

1. Stone fabrication and countertop manufacturing. Workers in these industries who cut, grind, or polish engineered stone surfaces are at the highest risk. The dust generated during these tasks can quickly accumulate in the air if proper safety measures are not implemented.
2. Construction. Construction workers who install engineered stone countertops — or who work with the material in other ways — can also risk exposure to silica dust.
3. Mining and quarrying. Workers involved in the extraction of quartz from mines and quarries may be exposed to high levels of silica dust as they handle raw materials that contain large amounts of crystalline silica.
4. Manufacturing. Individuals working in factories that manufacture engineered stone or related products may be exposed to harmful levels of silica dust if the proper safety measures are not in place.

Factors That Increase the Risk of Silicosis

Several factors contribute to the likelihood of developing silicosis from engineered stone exposure:

• Duration of exposure. The longer the exposure to silica dust, the higher the risk of developing silicosis. That’s why workers who have been in the industry for many years are at greater risk.
• Amount of dust. The more silica dust in the air, the greater the likelihood of inhalation. Poor ventilation or inadequate dust control systems can increase dust concentrations.
• Lack of protection. Without proper respiratory protection (for example, N95 respirators) or effective ventilation systems, workers are more likely to inhale dangerous levels of silica dust.
• Pre-existing lung conditions. Workers who have pre-existing lung conditions, like asthma or bronchitis, may be more susceptible to developing silicosis from silica dust exposure.

Symptoms of Silicosis

Silicosis can develop slowly, and symptoms may not appear for years after initial exposure. However, over time, the following symptoms may arise:

• Persistent cough
• Shortness of breath
• Fatigue
• Chest pain
• Wheezing
• Loss of appetite and weight loss

As the disease progresses, symptoms can worsen, which can lead to more severe respiratory issues and the potential for complications like pulmonary hypertension and heart failure.

FAQs

Q: Can Silicosis Progress After Exposure Ends?

A: Yes, silicosis can worsen even after exposure stops. Silica particles trapped in the lungs continue to cause inflammation and scarring. This can potentially lead to progressive lung damage and even respiratory failure. It is important for workers who may be exposed to silica to make regular doctors’ appointments in order to catch the disease as early as possible.

Q: Can Engineered Stone Silicosis Affect Workers’ Families?

A: Secondary exposure is always a risk. Silica dust can cling to workers’ clothing, hair, and skin, which can potentially expose family members to danger. However, proper decontamination procedures — changing clothes before entering a vehicle and showering immediately upon arrival at home can help mitigate this risk. It is also important to regularly wash your clothes, and explain the risks to your family.

Q: Is There a Way to Test for Silica Levels at Home?

A: Home testing kits for silica dust are certainly available on the market, but professional laboratory analysis of your home’s air quality is typically more accurate. If you’re concerned about silica exposure in your home — and your family’s health — consult with an industrial hygienist to conduct a professional test. Also, ensure that the members of your household keep up with their regular doctor appointments.

Q: Are DIY Projects With Engineered Stone Dangerous?

A: Yes. Any DIY projects that involve cutting, sanding, or grinding engineered stone can generate hazardous levels of silica dust. Without proper tools, ventilation, or PPE, individuals can risk exposure, which is why it is important to invest in an N95 mask, disposable hazard suits, and the rental of a wet-cutting saw if your project requires you to cut into any engineered stone.

Reach Out to a Silicosis Attorney

Engineered stone poses a significant risk of silicosis due to its high silica content. This means that workers involved in the cutting, grinding, or polishing of engineered stone are most at risk, as inhaling silica dust can cause permanent lung damage and disability.

If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with silicosis, you don’t have to struggle alone. The team of silicosis attorneys at Wallace & Graham, P.A., has decades of experience in toxic exposure litigation, and we are ready to fight for the justice — and compensation — you deserve.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.