Protecting Workspaces and Fabricators
Solid, uncut stone slabs are entirely safe. However, cutting, grinding, or altering stone generates airborne respirable crystalline silica dust, which poses severe health risks, including silicosis and lung cancer.
To ensure a safe environment:
- Adhere to Guidelines: Safety protocols must be followed at every step, from initial workshop fabrication to final installation.
- Employer Responsibility: Employers and fabricators are strictly responsible for providing personal protective equipment (PPE), enforcing local safety regulations, and utilizing wet-cutting or dust-extraction systems to control airborne particles.
- Distributor Disclaimer: As a distributor, we assume no liability for injuries, illnesses, or health conditions resulting from product handling, processing, or non-compliance with safety standards.
Essential Safety Rules
- Control Dust: Always use wet tools or HEPA vacuum systems when cutting or grinding.
- Wear PPE: Require proper respirators, eye protection, and gloves.
- Maintain Airflow: Keep work areas well-ventilated.
- Train Workers: Ensure everyone understands the risks and safety protocols.
Official Safety Resources:
- Occupational Safety and Health Administration – Health Effects, Construction Standards, Sampling and Analysis and FAQs
https://www.osha.gov/silica-crystalline/construction
- CDC Safe Work Practices (Ensuring worker protection)
https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/silica/work/index.html
- Proposition 65 Warnings Website
https://www.p65warnings.ca.gov/chemicals/silica-crystalline-airborne-particles-respirable-size
- Caesarstone Health and Safety (Good Practice Guide; Fabrication and Installation Guide)
https://mos.caesarstoneus.com/health-and-safety
- Cosentino Safety Data Sheet
- LX Hausys Viatera Safety Data Sheet
