Frequently asked questions about silicosis
Cosentino, a leading manufacturer of innovative surfaces for architecture and design, takes the issue of silicosis, a lung disease resulting from the inhalation of crystalline silica dust, seriously.
This condition, which can cause inflammation and pulmonary fibrosis, represents a significant risk in sectors such as construction, mining and quartz worktop manufacturing.
This silicosis FAQ provides a detailed and professional overview of the risks associated with crystalline silica, the most vulnerable sectors and the essential preventive measures to mitigate these hazards. Cosentino is committed to providing accurate and up-to-date information, promoting safe working practices and the implementation of appropriate protective measures to ensure the health and safety of its workers and customers.
Silicosis is a lung disease caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust, which can lead to inflammation and fibrosis in the lungs. Symptoms include difficulty breathing, persistent cough, chest pain, and fatigue. These symptoms may take years to appear after exposure.
Workers in construction, mining, quarries, and fabrication shops, among others, have higher exposure to silica dust.
Crystalline silica is a natural mineral composed of silicon dioxide (SiO2). It is found in materials such as quartz, sand, slate, and granite, among others.
Handling (processing, cutting, polishing, etc.) materials containing crystalline silica in a work environment is completely safe when done with the required safety measures established by current regulations. The risk arises when such handling is done without adequate safety and protection measures, leading to the inhalation of respirable crystalline silica.
Common materials such as asphalt, brick, cement, concrete, gypsum, and stone contain crystalline silica.
Prevention includes using personal protective equipment, engineering controls to reduce dust, such as wet cutting and polishing, dust cleaning and vacuuming, and safe work practices. There are numerous official guides establishing the necessary measures for handling products with crystalline silica, such as the Technical Guide for the prevention of risk from exposure to respirable crystalline silica in the workplace, developed by the National Institute of Silicosis in collaboration with the National Institute for Safety and Health at Work.
During installation, there is no risk as long as installers bring pre-cut and measured materials to the installation site without any additional manipulation onsite.
Yes, there is no risk.
Hire and follow the instructions of industrial hygiene prevention services specialists, and ensure the correct implementation of preventive measures to avoid the risk of exposure to respirable crystalline silica.
