Recent research has revealed that workers involved in the installation of artificial stone benchtops are significantly more susceptible to asthma than the general population. Conducted by Monash University, the study found that around 20% of these workers reported experiencing asthma, which is double the expected rate for individuals of a comparable age in the wider community.
Historically, artificial stone benchtops contained crystalline silica, a substance linked to silicosis, a severe and often irreversible lung condition. In response, Australia has pioneered a nationwide ban on silica in engineered stone products. However, the recent study highlights a concerning trend: many workers are developing asthma even in the absence of silicosis, suggesting they may also be at risk for other respiratory ailments.
Dr Dee Tomic from Monash University emphasised the correlation between dust exposure during work and the increase in asthma symptoms among workers, including indications of airflow obstruction in lung function tests. A notable finding is that over half of the workers who reported symptoms such as wheezing or shortness of breath noticed a marked improvement when not on the job, particularly during weekends and holidays. This pattern is indicative of work-related asthma, yet it frequently goes unrecognised.
Dr Tomic underscores the urgent need for heightened protective measures for these workers, asserting that if asthma is not identified and treated promptly, it can lead to chronic health issues. Although the ban on silica is a positive development, other harmful components, such as resins used in benchtops, remain prevalent.
She advocates for mandatory independent safety testing of new alternative products entering the market and stresses the importance of healthcare professionals routinely inquiring about occupational exposure when diagnosing adult-onset asthma. Overall, this research calls for more comprehensive safety measures to protect workers in the stone benchtop industry from respiratory conditions.