Silica Update

The silicosis crisis continues to be a pressing and severe issue, affecting workers and communities globally. This update is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the current situation focusing on the risks associated with crystalline silica, the specific dangers in the use of engineered stone, its relation to natural stone, safety considerations during installation, best practices for prevention, and the latest legislations in Australia and the United States.

1. Dangers of Crystalline Silica

Crystalline silica is a common mineral found in sand, stone, and concrete. When these materials are cut, ground, or drilled, tiny respirable particles are generated. Prolonged exposure to these respirable silica particles can lead to silicosis, a debilitating and potentially fatal lung disease. Symptoms include shortness of breath, cough, fever, and cyanosis. Advanced stages of silicosis can lead to heart failure. Workers in construction, mining, and manufacturing are at high risk.

2. Specific Focus on Engineered Stone

Engineered stone, often used for countertops and flooring, contains up to 95% crystalline silica, significantly higher than the content in natural stone. The high silica content, combined with cutting and polishing processes, creates very fine dust that is easily inhaled. This has led to a sharp increase in silicosis cases among workers handling engineered stone.

3. How it Applies to Natural Stone

While natural stone has a lower crystalline silica content compared to engineered stone, it is not without risk. Processes such as cutting, grinding, or polishing can still generate respirable silica dust. The key is the amount of dust generated and the duration of exposure.

4. Is it Dangerous When Installed?

Once installed, engineered and natural stone products do not typically pose a significant risk for silica exposure to the end-users. However, any subsequent cutting, grinding, or polishing done onsite can generate silica dust, necessitating proper precautions.

5. Best Practices for Prevention

Best practices for preventing silicosis include:

• Using water controls and proper ventilation to minimize dust.
• Providing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respirators.
• Training workers on the dangers of silica and safe work practices.
• Conducting regular health check-ups for workers.
• Implementing dust monitoring and control measures.

6. Latest Legislation in Australia

Australia has been proactive in addressing the silicosis crisis. As of September 2023, Safe Work Australia set the workplace exposure standard for respirable crystalline silica at 0.05 mg/m^3 as an 8-hour time-weighted average. Several states have introduced mandatory health screenings and have increased inspections and enforcement actions in industries dealing with engineered stone.

7. Latest Legislation in the U.S.

In the United States, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set the permissible exposure limit for respirable crystalline silica at 50 µg/m^3 over an 8-hour shift. OSHA’s standard also requires employers to implement engineering controls, offer medical examinations, and provide training.

Protests and calls for a ban on engineered stone have been growing as awareness of the associated health risks has increased. Various stakeholders are involved in this movement, including:

Labor Unions – Labor unions representing construction, manufacturing, and stone fabrication workers have been at the forefront of protests. They are demanding stricter regulations, better protective measures for workers, and in some cases, a complete ban on the use of engineered stone.

Health Advocacy Groups – Organizations dedicated to occupational health and safety are raising awareness about the dangers of silicosis and advocating for a ban or stricter regulation of engineered stone products. They are also pushing for better medical surveillance and compensation for affected workers.

Environmental Groups – Environmental advocacy groups are concerned about the broader ecological impact of engineered stone production and the associated dust emissions. They are joining the call for a ban or tighter controls.

Families and Communities Affected by Silicosis – Family members and communities affected by silicosis cases are increasingly vocal, sharing personal stories to highlight the human cost of exposure to crystalline silica. They are demanding justice, compensation, and policy changes to prevent future cases.

Industry Insiders – There are also voices within the industry calling for change. Some manufacturers and suppliers are advocating for safer alternatives to engineered stone or improved manufacturing processes to reduce dust emissions.

Legal Advocates – Lawyers representing workers affected by silicosis are pushing for compensation and policy changes. They are also helping to bring attention to the issue through legal channels.

Global Movement – This movement is not confined to any one country; it is a global issue with protests and advocacy taking place in countries like Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, and others.

Response to Protests – The industry response has been varied, with some companies investing in safer practices and materials, while others resist change. Governments and regulatory bodies are under increasing pressure to respond, resulting in updated regulations and standards in some regions.

The call for a ban on engineered stone is part of a larger push for safer working conditions and awareness of occupational health risks. The outcome of these protests and advocacy efforts will depend on the collective actions of governments, industries, and communities worldwide.

8. Next Milestones to Look Out For

The next milestones in addressing the silicosis crisis include:

• Continued global awareness and education campaigns.
• Ongoing research into safer alternatives and improved protective equipment.
• Monitoring the long-term effectiveness of current regulations and making adjustments as necessary.
• Strengthening cross-border collaborations to establish universal safety standards.

In summary, while strides have been made in legislation and awareness, the silicosis crisis remains a critical issue. Ongoing vigilance, education, and strict adherence to safety practices are imperative to protect workers and communities from the devastating effects of crystalline silica exposure.