Water suppression has become an essential control measure because it significantly reduces the amount of respirable crystalline silica (RCS) dust released into the air when engineered stone is cut, ground or polished.
When engineered stone is processed, microscopic particles of crystalline silica can become airborne. These particles are so small that they can be inhaled deep into the lungs, where repeated exposure can lead to serious and irreversible health conditions, including silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and lung cancer.
Following extensive research, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) concluded that dry processing of engineered stone can expose workers to respirable crystalline silica levels between five and ten times higher than equivalent wet processing methods. As a result, the HSE has made it clear that dry cutting, grinding and polishing engineered stone is no longer considered an acceptable method of working, and businesses are expected to adopt on-tool water suppression and other suitable control measures as part of their duties under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations.
Water suppression works by delivering a continuous flow of water directly onto the cutting or grinding tool. Rather than allowing harmful dust to become airborne, the water captures the particles at source, creating a wet slurry that can be safely collected and disposed of before it has the opportunity to dry and become airborne again.
However, water suppression is only one part of a safe working system. The HSE also expects businesses to:
- Use engineered stone with the lowest practicable crystalline silica content wherever possible.
- Control any airborne mist created during wet processing.
- Provide suitable respiratory protective equipment (RPE) for employees.
- Ensure appropriate health surveillance is in place where required.
- Safely remove and dispose of wet slurry before it dries and releases dust back into the workplace.
At Guardian Ventures, we’ve embraced this new direction by supplying innovative silica-free engineered stone surfaces, independently tested to contain trace levels of less than 1% crystalline silica. Combined with accurate templating, professional off-site fabrication and minimal on-site processing, our approach helps trade customers create a safer working environment while delivering faster, cleaner and more efficient installations.
If you’d like advice on transitioning to water-suppressed fabrication, selecting lower-silica materials or reviewing your installation methods, please contact the Guardian Ventures Technical Advice Line. We’ll be happy to help you understand the latest HSE guidance and introduce you to trusted industry partners who can support your transition.