Artificial stone countertops, also known as "quartz stone countertops," are made by polymerizing quartz aggregate and resin binder. These materials look similar to natural stone and are increasingly used in residential construction and home furnishings. Between 2010 and 2018, imports of quartzite countertops in the United States have increased by nearly 800% (US International Trade Commission). Artificial stone may contain much more crystalline silicon than natural stone (> 90% and granite <45%) (Occupational Safety and Health Administration [OSHA] / National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health [NIOSH] Hazard Alert ). Operations such as cutting, sanding, polishing, and drilling have the potential to diffuse dangerous levels of silicon dust into the air. Inhalation of dust from materials containing silicon (such as artificial stones) can cause silicosis. Silicosis is caused by scars in the lungs and can cause permanent lung damage. It is a progressive, incurable, incurable, and even fatal disease.
Exposure to silica dust poses a health hazard to workers who manufacture, process, and install natural stone countertops and artificial stone countertops. The symptoms of silicosis can include cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, or chest pain. Silicosis usually occurs after exposure to inhalable crystalline silica dust for 10 years or more. However, intensive exposure can cause the disease to progress more quickly and can lead to more severe lung disease. In addition to silicosis, inhalation of small amounts ("respirable") crystalline silicon particles can cause lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and kidney disease, and can be accompanied by lung infections, autoimmune diseases and cardiovascular damage.