New study finds engineered stone contain other substances that can damage workers’ lungs

New Study Finds Engineered Stone Contains Other Substances That Can Damage Workers' Lungs

A new study has revealed that silica is not the only substance in engineered stone products that can cause damage to workers' lungs. Researchers found metal components and chemical by-products in engineered stone dust also pose serious risks to lung health.

What the Research Found

In a study led by Dr Chandnee Ramkissoon from the University of Adelaide's School of Public Health, researchers from the University of Tasmania and the University of Adelaide collected dust from 50 engineered stones and exposed lung cells to samples for analysis.

"Our research showed engineered stone's metal components may also be hazardous to lung health. In particular, cobalt and aluminium have been associated with lung inflammation," Dr Ramkissoon said.

Resin Breakdown Creates Additional Hazards

Beyond silica content, engineered stone carries other risks during fabrication work. "Unlike natural stone, engineered stone emissions contained up to 20 per cent resin, and during cutting and grinding there is the potential for resin to break down and generate harmful chemicals such as styrene," Dr Ramkissoon explained.

This resin breakdown during stone fabricating work means tradespeople face compounded exposure risks beyond crystalline particles alone.

Implications for Silica-Free Alternatives

"This potential for co-exposure to various hazards has significant implications for new stone alternatives emerging on the market – particularly reduced-silica or silica-free stones. There are a lot of unknowns about the safety of these products," Dr Ramkissoon noted.

The study suggests manufacturers marketing silica-free products as safer options may be overlooking other harmful substances in their formulations. Employers relying solely on hazardous substances management practices focused on silica alone could be leaving workers unprotected against metal and chemical exposures.

Why This Matters for Workplace Safety

Findings arrive amid growing scrutiny of engineered stone across Australia, where regulators have already moved to restrict use of these materials on occupational health grounds. Businesses handling engineered stone should review their hazardous substances policy to ensure controls address the full range of contaminants identified in this study, not just silica dust.

For further context on regulatory momentum building around these materials, read our coverage of a report calling for a ban on engineered stone.

Get more details here.