Respirable crystalline silica, or RCS, is a natural mineral present in materials like engineered stone, granite, and sandstone, as well as in construction components like concrete, bricks, and mortar. When these materials undergo processes such as cutting, crushing, drilling, polishing, sawing, or grinding, they release minute dust particles. These particles, known as respirable crystalline silica (RCS), are extremely small and nearly invisible under standard lighting. RCS dust can linger in the air for extended periods and can be easily breathed deep into the lungs.
The hazards of inhaling RCS dust include severe lung conditions like:
- Silicosis
- Progressive massive fibrosis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
- Lung cancer or emphysema
- Chronic renal disease
- Autoimmune disorders
Silicosis may develop or progress even after exposure to RCS has ceased. Symptoms of silicosis encompass:
- Shortness of breath, which may worsen with physical activity
- Persistent cough
- Fatigue
- Rapid breathing
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Chest pain
- Fever
- Gradual darkening of the skin (bluish skin)
The Managing respirable crystalline silica dust exposure in the stone-benchtop industry code of practice 2019 establishes enforceable standards to minimize the risk of worker exposure to RCS dust in this industry. It also provides information on the risks and consequences of RCS dust exposure in the stone-benchtop sector.