This Natural Stone University resource discusses what silicosis is and what measures should be taken to minimize exposure and respiration of silica dust.

This Natural Stone University resource discusses what silicosis is and what measures should be taken to minimize exposure and respiration of silica dust.

A new silicosis training resource has been added to the Natural Stone University. This resource, entitled “Silicosis: An Industry Guide to Awareness and Prevention,” is divided into three sections:

  • What Is Silicosis?: An Industry Guide to Awareness and Prevention
  • Air Quality Test Methods
  • Safety Precautions for Workers


“This is an important addition to our library of online safety resources,” said Aaron Dahnke, MIA+BSI Education Manager. “This training tool serves as a review and opportunity to update the people who work in our industry about this preventable illness.”

Overexposure to respirable crystalline silica particles can lead to serious, sometimes fatal illnesses including silicosis, lung cancer, tuberculosis (in those with silicosis), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In addition, silica exposure has been linked to other illnesses including renal disease and other cancers. Silicosis is a progressive disease and there is no cure upon its onset. Minimizing your exposure to respirable crystalline silica is the key to prevention.

Shop owners who have implemented strict new housekeeping rules and controls have been able to achieve levels that are below the new OSHA Action Level (25 µg/m³). The effective date for OSHA’s new silica exposure standard for General Industry (fabricators) was June 23, 2018. The Construction Standard, covering workers in the field, became enforceable September 23, 2017. 

To access this resource, visit www.naturalstoneinstitute.org/university.


MIA+BSI: the Natural Stone Institute serves more than 1900 members in 55 countries who represent every aspect of the natural stone industry, offering them a wide array of technical and training resources, professional development, regulatory advocacy, and networking events. Two prominent publications—the Dimension Stone Design Manual and Building Stone Magazine—raise awareness in both the industry and the design communities for the promotion and best use of natural stone. Learn more at www.naturalstoneinstitute.org.