Silicosis: “There’s No Cure for this Illness”

The epidemic of our time is here. Further, our industry, tile and stone, is at the epicenter of this illness.

Silicosis hits Fabricators the Hardest

Countertop fabricators get hit the hardest.

• Immigrants are particularly vulnerable to this disease
• Engineered products have much higher concentrations than natural stone
• Many of the machines don’t cut wet
• Masks, vacuums, and ventilation are frequently inadequate

The Fallout

Silicosis has become such a problem that Los Angeles County in California is considering whether to ban the sale and installation of “silica-engineered stone” completely.

I’ve previously linked to 60 Minutes Australia’s coverage of the epidemic down there

What do the manufacturers say?

Manufacturers like Cambria and Caesarstone argue that safety regulations have been in place and aren’t being followed.

“Safety regulations need to be simplified and enforced,” says Members of the Stone Coalition, an industry group representing fabricators and manufacturers alike.

Silica dust is an industry-wide issue

Silica dust is in the mortars that we use, the backer boards that we install, and the tiles that we cut and grind.

We can:

• use vacuums and guards on our tools
• Wear masks
• Use low or no silica components

Taking care of your lungs will pay off decades down the road

Hat tip to Chanel for spotting the LA Times article