In Australia, a current legal class action has been commenced for workers allegedly injured by the inhalation of artificial (engineered) stone.
Silicosis is a progressive fibrotic lung disease that is caused by the inhalation of crystalline silica. Due to its high silica content, artificial stone (AS) is a source of hazardous dust exposure for workers employed in the manufacturing, finishing, and installing of AS countertops. A systematic review of articles found that the characteristics of AS-associated silicosis were comparable to those that were reported for the disease in traditional silica exposure settings. Critical issues have emerged concerning the general lack of strategies for assessing/managing silica risks in these occupational fields. Further research that is designed to assess the hazardous properties of AS dusts, levels of exposure in workplaces, and the effectiveness of protective equipment is needed to increase awareness concerning the risks and encourage employers, employees, and all involved parties engaged in prevention to define/adopt proper measures to protect the health of workers.
Citation:
Leso, V.; Fontana, L.; Romano, R.; Gervetti, P.; Iavicoli, I. Artificial Stone Associated Silicosis: A Systematic Review. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2019, 16, 568
