NSI, ISFA Offer Synopsis on Silica Exposure Studies

OBERLIN, Ohio — The Natural Stone Institute (NSI) and the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA) now offer a literature review to summarize the growing number of studies related to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) exposure.

Compiled by Yale Occupational and Environmental Medicine, the study covers 34 publications and documents focused primarily on materials and work safety methods specific to RCS exposure from the fabrication of natural and engineered stone countertops.

The study aims to showcase findings, trends, and conclusions from the publications and highlight strengths and weaknesses from each. The anticipated result of this review is to identify the primary causes of risk for RCS exposure and to identify effective controls and work methods to reduce or eliminate future silicosis cases.

A major finding of the review is the need for additional and more detailed research into products, control strategies and the need for increased RCS, workplace air sampling, and medical evaluations of workers.

NSI and ISFA are hopeful that by sharing this information industry stakeholders will gain a better understanding of best practices and effective control strategies.

A second report analyzing data from a recent air sampling study from NSI and ISFA members will be available before the end of this year, and additional literature reviews on medical related studies are planned for 2025.

For more information, go to www.naturalstoneinstitute.org/silica.