The coal mining industry has recently experienced a number of
challenges in dealing with the effects of exposure to coal dust.
Similar concerns have now arisen for the construction industry
regarding the effects of exposure to respirable crystalline silica
(RCS).
Workers engaged in cutting, grinding, sanding, polishing and
installing stone benchtops may be exposed to RCS. RCS can cause
significant health defects, including silicosis. Silicosis is a
debilitating respiratory disease which causes irreversible effects,
has no proven treatment and can be fatal.
Controlling exposure to silica dust is vital to preventing this
disease. Workplace Health and Safety Queensland (WHSQ) has issued
an urgent safety warning reinforcing the message that uncontrolled
dry cutting of engineered stone is prohibited.
