Uninformed or irresponsible handling of silica-containing materials – such as composite – can negatively impact health. But to simply label composite as “unhealthy” as an end product? Completely unjustified, according to science itself. That certainly doesn’t mean we rest on our laurels. What do we do daily to make our product as safe as possible for everyone in the chain? Let’s dot the i’s and cross the t’s.

Crystalline silica?

Crystalline silica is a mineral that makes up about 12% of our earth’s crust and is present in almost all stone-containing materials. In the popular quartzite, the silica content is even 100%. In dust form, silica can damage the respiratory system.

The terms ‘composite’ and ‘crystalline silica’ are sometimes mentioned in the same breath, especially among workers who handle the material daily.

Although it is scientifically proven that silica in its finished form – including for everyone who has composite in their home – poses no health risk, it remains important to maximally protect workers handling such materials. Which has been an absolute priority at Diresco for over twenty years.

It is only during the processing of stone, specifically during the formation of fine dust, that potential danger arises. To minimize the dangers of fine dust – which poses risks in any form, think of emissions from fireplaces and cars – we consciously take several steps further in informing and raising awareness among composite workers.

Silicosis completely out of play: with us and with you

The same applies to our own employees, who see our product evolve daily from powder form to finished slab. Safe working with composite is not an empty promise; it is a proven practice at Diresco.

Every year, we have our production colleagues medically tested. Since our founding in 2003, there has not been a single case of silicosis – a condition linked to silica – registered. This is no coincidence but the result of a well-thought-out strategy and a permanent focus on safety.

The safety efforts we make for our colleagues in the production halls, we also make for every processor who handles our composite today and in the future. This translates into:

• Internationally certified products: our composite is produced according to the strictest possible standards;
• Sharing information: we always send clear safety instructions for processing our composite in no less than eight languages. You can also simply download these from us;
• Advice from years of expertise: we continue to emphasize the importance of working with water supply and/or integrated dust extraction, optimal ventilation, suitable PPE, …

Science leads with Diresco’s Low Silica

But our efforts don’t stop here. Our internal R&D lab is busy every day pushing the boundaries of composite. One of their major goals is to minimize the silica content in our end product. These composite slabs receive the Diresco Low Silica label and contain much less silica than many natural stone products.

Today, this is already the case for the entire Nature collection and the Sublime Riviera Grigio design. They will soon be joined by new and existing colors within our composite range. And importantly: this without any color difference.

The healthy reflex? Work with Diresco composite!

As you can see, Diresco continues to invest in the highest safety standards and supports stone workers non-stop in their daily workflow. We are happy to assist you personally with our information and advice. Our employees are also constantly at your disposal. Get to know our service on & beneath the surface.

Would you like to know more about working safely and healthily with composite or how we work with stone workers in practice? Contact us and discover how we can support you.