Are Quartz Worktops Bad for Your Health?
The material make-up of quartz worktops creates a durable, non-porous surface that is resistant to stains, scratches and bacteria, and requires much less maintenance than other natural stone worktops, making it a popular choice amongst homeowners across the globe. Whilst they don’t pose a risk to consumers, quartz worktop health concerns have been found by researchers at the University of California that the manufacture of them has been putting the health of workers significantly at risk.
It’s important to note that if you’re a homeowner looking to have a quartz worktop installed, there is absolutely no risk to you and those living in your home. The health concerns that have been raised by researchers predominantly relate to the manufacturing process. So, if you’re thinking about installing a quartz worktop from Mo’s StoneX, you can rest assured knowing your home will be safe.
What is a Quartz Worktop?
A quartz worktop is an engineered stone surface made primarily from natural quartz, one of the hardest minerals on Earth. Typically, these worktops consist of about 90-95% ground quartz, combined with resins, pigments, and other additives to bind the material together so a wide variety of colours and patterns can be created.
The material also contains a substance called crystalline silica – a naturally occurring mineral that’s a major component of many other forms of natural stone, such as marble and granite. As quartz contains a much higher percentage of silica compared to natural stone materials like granite and marble, its safety has been brought into question.
What are quartz worktop health concerns?
The most significant health concern related to quartz worktops is the exposure to silica dust during the manufacturing process. When quartz is cut, ground or polished, it can release fine particles or crystalline silica into the air. This unfortunately means that workers are often surrounded by a cloud of silica dust, making it very easy to inhale over long periods of time if proper caution isn’t taken. This inhalation can lead to serious health conditions if the correct health procedures are not followed.
How Can Workers Protect Themselves from Silica Dust Exposure?
To mitigate these health risks, it’s crucial that manufacturers and installers adhere to strict safety protocols. This includes using water-fed tools to suppress dust, proper ventilation, and personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators. Employers should also provide regular health screenings for workers to detect any early signs of silica-related diseases.
During the production of quartz worktops, resins and other chemicals are used to bind the quartz particles together. Some of these resins may emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can contribute to indoor air pollution. However, the levels of VOCs emitted by quartz worktops are generally low, and most modern manufacturers ensure that their products meet stringent safety standards.
Safety Considerations for Homeowners
When considering installing a quartz countertop in your home, it’s essential to choose a reputable supplier and installer, such as the team here at Mo’s StoneX. Professional installation ensures that any potential risks associated with the material, such as the release of silica dust during cutting, are properly managed. By adhering to industry best practices, such as using water-fed tools and ensuring adequate ventilation during installation, professional installers can significantly reduce any potential health hazards and avoid putting homeowners at risk.
One of the key advantages of installing quartz worktops over natural stone worktops like granite or marble is that quartz does not require sealing. Due to their porous nature, natural stones need to be sealed regularly to prevent staining and bacterial growth. The sealing process often involves the application of chemical sealants, which can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that contribute to indoor air pollution. As quartz is a non-porous material, it eliminates the need for sealing, thereby avoiding potential exposure to harmful chemicals in your home.
While the quartz worktop health concerns primarily concern workers in the manufacturing process, homeowners can feel confident that once installed, quartz is completely safe. By choosing a reputable supplier and ensuring proper installation, you can enjoy the many benefits of a quartz worktop, such as its low maintenance, low porosity and resistance to stains and bacteria. With proper care, your quartz worktop will remain a stunning feature of your home for years to come.
How Mo’s StoneX Can Help
Mo’s StoneX has over a decade of experience supplying, manufacturing and installing high-quality quartz worktops. We stock a huge range of colours, styles and finishes to make it easy to transform your kitchen or bathroom, whatever your colour scheme! From the initial quote to the installation, our professional and friendly team handles everything .
Fill out our online enquiry form for a free quote, or contact our team if you’re interested in transforming your kitchen or bathroom with timeless quartz.
