The materials commonly used for kitchen countertops and household furniture that can release harmful dust when cut or processed include:
Silica-containing materials: Silica is a mineral found in various natural stones used for countertops, such as granite, quartzite, and sandstone. Cutting or grinding these materials can release silica dust, which can pose a serious health risk when inhaled.
Engineered stone: Engineered stone, also known as quartz or quartz composite, is a man-made material that consists of crushed quartz mixed with resins and other additives. The cutting or fabrication of engineered stone can generate silica dust similar to natural stone countertops.
Concrete: Concrete countertops or furniture made from concrete can produce dust containing silica and other potentially harmful substances, such as cement particles, during cutting or sanding.
Marble: While marble is generally considered less harmful than silica-based materials, cutting or grinding marble can still produce fine dust particles that may contain calcium carbonate and other trace minerals, which could irritate the respiratory system.
It's important to note that inhaling excessive amounts of dust from these materials can lead to respiratory problems and long-term health issues, including silicosis, lung cancer, and other respiratory diseases. To mitigate the risks, it is crucial to follow appropriate safety measures, such as using proper respiratory protection, wetting the material during cutting, using local exhaust ventilation systems, and employing dust control methods to minimize dust generation.