If your business currently dry cuts engineered stone, now is the time to review your working practices. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) has made it clear that dry cutting, grinding and polishing engineered stone is no longer considered an acceptable method of working. Businesses are expected to implement effective control measures, including on-tool water suppression, to minimise exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) dust and comply with their legal duties under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations.
Every business is different, but we recommend taking the following steps as a priority:
1. Stop dry processing engineered stone
Review your current fabrication methods and begin transitioning to wet processing using appropriate water suppression systems and safe methods of work.
2. Seek professional Health & Safety advice
Appoint a competent consultancy-led HR and Health & Safety provider to review your business, update your COSHH risk assessments and help you implement the policies, procedures and control measures needed to remain legally compliant. This not only helps protect your employees but also demonstrates that directors have taken reasonable steps to meet their legal responsibilities and safeguard the business.
3. Review your tooling and equipment
Modern water-suppressed machinery and tooling can significantly reduce airborne dust. Guardian Ventures works closely with specialist tooling suppliers and can introduce you to trusted partners who offer practical solutions and upgrade packages to help businesses transition from dry processing to compliant wet fabrication.
4. Review your material choices
Consider using Guardian Ventures’ innovative silica-free engineered stone surfaces, independently tested to contain trace levels of less than 1% crystalline silica. While safe processing methods must still be followed, choosing lower-silica materials forms an important part of a safer overall working environment.
5. Train your team
Ensure all employees understand the latest HSE guidance, know how to use water suppression equipment correctly, wear the appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE) and follow safe working procedures at all times.
6. Don’t overlook health surveillance
Where employees are exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust, appropriate health surveillance should form part of your ongoing Health & Safety management programme, as recommended by the HSE.
The recent changes represent one of the most significant developments the engineered stone industry has seen in many years. Businesses that act now will not only improve the safety of their workforce but also be better prepared for HSE inspections and future industry requirements.
If you’d like help understanding the latest guidance, sourcing compliant tooling or transitioning to safer fabrication methods, please contact the Guardian Ventures Technical Advice Line. We’ll be pleased to introduce you to trusted Health & Safety consultants, specialist tooling suppliers and other industry partners who can help your business make the transition with confidence.