Accelerated Silicosis: What Workers in the Engineered Stone Industry Need to Know
Accelerated silicosis is a serious lung disease that can develop after relatively short‐term exposure to high concentrations of crystalline silica dust. This disease has become more common among people who work with engineered stone—particularly in tasks that involve cutting, grinding, sanding, or polishing materials containing silica. Below, we break down what accelerated silicosis is, why it matters, and how you can protect your health.
What is Accelerated Silicosis?
Silicosis is a progressive lung disease caused by inhaling respirable crystalline silica (RCS) dust. Crystalline silica is a naturally occurring mineral found in materials like concrete, bricks, and natural stone. Engineered stone, which is often used in kitchen and bathroom benchtops, can contain very high levels of silica—sometimes more than 90%.
There are several forms of silicosis, and accelerated silicosis is of particular concern in the engineered stone industry. While chronic silicosis may take 10 years or more to develop, accelerated silicosis can appear after only 5 to 10 years of exposure—and in some cases even sooner if exposures are very high.
How Does It Affect the Lungs?
When you breathe in dust containing RCS, the tiny particles travel deep into your lungs. Your body’s natural defence mechanisms cannot break down these particles, so they become trapped in the lung tissue. Over time, the silica particles cause inflammation and scarring (fibrosis), which makes it harder to breathe.
With accelerated silicosis, this scarring can happen much faster than with chronic silicosis. What might take a decade to develop in lower‐exposure settings could occur in only a few years—or even less than one year—if the silica dust levels are very high.
Who is at Risk?
Anyone who cuts, grinds, sands, polishes, or otherwise disturbs engineered stone may be at risk of inhaling RCS dust. Jobs in benchtop fabrication, construction, and stone masonry are commonly affected. You may be at higher risk if you:
Work with engineered stone for more than six months in total over the past 10 years.
Operate in environments with inadequate dust control—for example, dry cutting without ventilation or water suppression.
Lack appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respirators that are properly fitted.
If you have worked with engineered stone for at least six months in the last 10 years, you it is recommended that you get a health check to assess your potential exposure to RCS dust.
Signs and Symptoms
Accelerated silicosis affects everyone differently, but common early signs of the disease can include:
- Shortness of breath (particularly during exercise)
- Harsh, dry cough
- Tiredness
- Weight loss
- Increasing shortness of breath as disease progresses
If you notice these symptoms and have a history of exposure to silica dust—even if it has only been a few years—talk to your General Practitioner (GP) about your concerns. Early diagnosis is important for managing the condition and slowing progression.
Getting a Health Assessment
- Visit Your GP
If you’ve worked with engineered stone for more than six months in the last 10 years (whether in New Zealand or overseas), a visit to your GP is recommended—even if you feel fine. Your GP can assess your respiratory health and may refer you for further testing, such as a chest X-ray or lung function tests. - Bring Previous Health Records
If a current or previous workplace monitored your health in the past—perhaps you had chest X-rays or respiratory checks—try to obtain those records and share them with your GP. This information helps build a clearer picture of your exposure history. - Who Pays?
You will usually need to pay for your GP visit. However, some or all of the cost may be covered if your GP lodges a claim with ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation), with your consent. If cost is a concern, talk to your employer about options; some workplaces may assist with paying for the health assessment or allow you time off work to attend appointments.
What Happens if You’re at Risk?
If you are assessed and found to have accelerated silicosis or a risk of developing it, your GP and any specialists involved will discuss treatment plans, further tests, and lifestyle or workplace adjustments to help manage your condition. ACC can pay for diagnostic assessments and tests that are needed to evaluate your claim.
Reducing Your Risk in the Workplace
As far as reasonably practicable, workplaces must monitor workers’ health if there is a particular risk of exposure to silica dust. Employers should take steps to minimize the amount of dust generated and reduce the time you are exposed. Common risk management strategies include:
Using water suppression: Cutting or grinding engineered stone while it’s wet can significantly reduce dust levels.
Employing local exhaust ventilation (LEV): Specialized extraction systems can capture dust at the source.
Wearing proper RPE: A fit-tested respirator (for example, a reusable half – face respirator with particulate filter) designed to filter silica dust can protect against inhalation.
Limiting dry processing: Wet‐cutting or wet‐polishing methods are safer than dry processes.
Regular cleaning with vacuum systems: Dry sweeping can stir up dust into the air. A HEPA‐filtered vacuum or wet cleaning methods are preferable.
If you are unsure whether your workplace is meeting these standards, discuss your concerns with your employer, health and safety representative, or contact WorkSafe for advice.
Take action now!
Remember: Accelerated silicosis is a serious but preventable disease. With the right safety measures, regular health checks, and open communication, workers in the engineered stone industry can reduce the risks of this debilitating condition. If you suspect you might be at risk, please take the step to visit your GP and discuss any concerns you have about your health. Early detection and intervention can make a substantial difference to long-term outcomes.