At MBO Safety Services, we work with organisations across the UK that handle high‑risk materials every day. One of the most significant and fast‑growing risks in the stonemasonry and fabrication sector is exposure to respirable crystalline silica when working with engineered stone.
The Health and Safety Executive has recently reinforced the dangers associated with cutting, grinding and polishing engineered stone. Their guidance highlights the severe and often irreversible health effects caused by breathing in fine silica dust. As a safety provider, we want to ensure businesses fully understand these risks and know how to control them effectively.
What Is Engineered Stone and Why Is It High Risk?
Engineered stone is a man‑made product created by bonding crushed natural stone or minerals with resin. When it is cut or drilled, it releases extremely fine silica particles. These particles are small enough to travel deep into the lungs, where they can cause long‑term and life‑changing damage.
This fine dust is known as respirable crystalline silica, and it is far more hazardous than many workers realise.
Health Risks from Silica Exposure
According to the HSE, exposure to respirable crystalline silica can lead to:
- Silicosis – a progressive and incurable lung disease
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Lung cancer
- Long‑term lung damage that may develop before symptoms appear
Silicosis can continue to worsen even after exposure stops, which is why early control measures are essential.
Legal Duties Under COSHH
Employers have a legal responsibility under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations to assess and control exposure to respirable crystalline silica. This includes ensuring workers have the correct equipment, training and protection in place.
HSE Recommended Control Measures
The HSE outlines several key steps to reduce silica dust exposure when working with engineered stone:
- Choose stone with the lowest possible crystalline silica content
- Use water suppression and ensure mist is controlled, as it can still contain silica
- Provide powered air purifying respirators with an assigned protection factor of at least 20
- Regularly review and maintain all control measures
- Provide health surveillance for workers who are regularly exposed
- Keep work areas clean, as dust on surfaces and clothing can be a major source of exposure
These measures are not optional. They are essential for protecting workers and ensuring legal compliance.
How MBO Safety Services Can Support Your Organisation
At MBO Safety Services, we help businesses meet their legal duties and protect their workforce when working with hazardous materials such as engineered stone.
We can support you with:
Face Fit Testing and RPE Selection
Ensuring workers have the correct respiratory protective equipment is vital. We provide face fit testing, and guidance on selecting suitable equipment for silica‑related tasks.
COSHH Assessments and Risk Control
Our consultants can carry out full COSHH assessments, review your current controls and help you implement effective measures that meet HSE expectations.
Health and Safety Training
We deliver accredited training that helps workers understand the dangers of silica dust and how to work safely with engineered stone.
Site Support
We can visit your site, review your processes and provide practical recommendations to reduce exposure and improve compliance.
Ongoing Compliance Support
From documentation to refresher training, we help you maintain safe working practices all year round.
Our Commitment to Safer Workplaces
Silica dust exposure is a serious and preventable risk. With the right controls, training and equipment, businesses can protect their workers and remain compliant with UK legislation.
At MBO Safety Services, we are committed to supporting organisations across the UK in creating safer, healthier workplaces. If your team works with engineered stone or other silica‑containing materials, we are here to help you put the right measures in place.
For more details, contact us on:
📞 08000 842 297
📧 info@mbo.ltd