WorkSafe has issued a safety alert on the health risks caused by exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) for workers in the stone benchtop manufacturing, finishing and installation industries.

Cumulative exposure to RCS may cause serious, debilitating and potentially fatal health effects, including silicosis. RCS is smaller than dust and is invisible to the naked eye. Tiny particles of RCS can get deep into the lungs and cause permanent, progressive lung damage. There is no effective treatment for silicosis.

For further information visit the safety alert issued by WorkSafe.