Are Quartz Worktops Safe?
With the news that quartz worktops could become a banned building material amid growing concerns over its safety and links to silicosis, we’re calling on the industry to crack down on manufacturing safety practices, rather than banning the material altogether.
Our managing director, Paul Dore, says:
“There is a misconception that quartz worktops are dangerous, but that is extremely exaggerated. Quartz is engineered, and like many stones, contains silica. When being cut, the silica dust can be inhaled – but it’s important to note that if all recommended PPE and environmental steps are followed, the risk of this is small.
It is also crucial to highlight that any risk is only during the manufacturing process. The headlines are painting a picture that quartz is a health risk – like asbestos – but having quartz in your home, whether as a kitchen worktop, backsplash, or even feature wall, is not dangerous. So people mustn’t panic and take drastic steps to remove it. There is no evidence to support a danger to customers or even installers.
Since Australia banned quartz earlier this year, there has been a movement to further reduce risk, and as a result, suppliers are now developing quartz with a lower percentage of respirable crystalline silica (RCS). This will further reduce risk, but as always, prevention is key and this starts with correct safety protocols.
Quartz is an incredibly popular choice. Cheaper than some alternatives like granite and marble, we recommend quartz as a hard-wearing and beautiful material that adds luxury to any home. And we will continue to recommend it until there is further evidence that proves it is anything but safe. Safety is our top priority, and as such, we take special measures and go above and beyond to ensure our team takes every precaution when cutting any material. As such, we have never had any issues with quartz – or any other material.
We are also members of the Worktop Fabricators Federation (WFF), which is an industry-recognised organisation that focuses on sharing best practices and continued education for fabricators.
The truth is that while some people have unfortunately developed silicosis, which may be linked to their work with quartz, this will have only happened due to the recommended safety advice not being followed. Therefore it’s important that the industry and regulating bodies look at the root cause of the issue and crack down on safety. Otherwise, even if quartz is banned, there may still be a rise in illnesses and injuries that are linked to working with both engineered and natural stone.”
If you are concerned about quartz, you are more than welcome to contact our team who will be able to answer any questions you may have. You can also call us on 01243 544770 to discuss.
