Quartz stone is primarily composed of crystalline silica. When factory workers or kitchen installers work with artificial stone, a very fine dust, rich in silica, is released into the air. This dust, known as respirable crystalline silica, is harmful to human lungs and can lead to various diseases over time.
Furthermore, the resins, metals, and pigments used in the composition of quartz artificial stone make this dust even more toxic and harmful. After years of observation and research, Australian doctors have found that prolonged work with quartz stone leads to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other illnesses.
People suffering from COPD have difficulty breathing, cough constantly, and tire quickly. Another potential consequence is silicosis, where lung tissue gradually hardens and scars due to silica dust exposure. People with silicosis are at higher risk for developing tuberculosis, kidney failure, arthritis, and lung cancer.