How-To Guides

Silicosis: Australia's Silent Killer and What Every Builder Must Do About It

Silicosis is killing Australian construction workers. Learn the risks of silica dust, the engineered stone ban, and how to protect your site and your team.

TL;DR Silicosis is an incurable lung disease caused by inhaling fine silica dust. It is projected to affect over 103,000 Australian workers and cause more than 10,000 lung cancer cases due to current workplace exposure. Unlike asbestos, which took decades to show symptoms, silicosis from engineered stone can develop in as little as three years — striking workers in their 20s and 30s. Australia banned engineered stone from 1 July 2024, becoming the first country in the world to do so. But silica dust is not just in engineered stone. It is in concrete, bricks, mortar, tiles, and natural stone. Every trade on a construction site is potentially exposed. This article explains the real risks, compares natural and engineered stone, covers the current regulations, and outlines what responsible bui…