The Colorado Floor Co. and Cutting Edge Countertops talk about silica and overall shop safety.

Jeff McKissack of Defense By Design in Dallas, TX, presented an informative and eye-opening session entitled “Safer Places through Safer People” during Total Solutions Plus.

Jeff Courtright, safety coordinator for Planet Granite, discusses safety for employees as well as the biggest issues OSHA finds during an inspection.

Even if a business has an established safety plan, rules and procedures must be followed for them to be effective.

In the past two years, Australia had its first reported fatality from silicosis. In response, the Australian government has been advocating for change and protection for fabricators. Silicosis is a form of occupational, non-reversible lung disease caused by inhalation of silica dust over a long period of time. Silica is a highly common, crystal-like mineral found in sand, rock, and quartz. It can have deadly consequences for people who work with stone, tile, concrete, glass, or other forms of rock.

The threat of silica exposure is not a new story. However, these reports are a strong reminder that stone companies must be diligent about reducing the risks to workers. The Natural Stone Institute recommends the following.