Engineered stone and silica: what kitchen buyers should know

Where the risk is

Engineered stone contains a lot of crystalline silica. When it is cut, ground or polished, fine silica dust is released, and breathing it in over time can cause silicosis, a serious lung disease. The risk is to fabricators and fitters. A finished worktop in your kitchen does not release silica dust in normal use.

What the HSE has said

In a statement on 11 May 2026, the Health and Safety Executive declared that cutting engineered stone dry is not acceptable. It warned that engineered stone can be up to 95% crystalline silica and set out a programme of over 1,000 fabricator inspections. Wet cutting, dust extraction and proper respiratory protection are the controls it expects to see.

Is engineered stone banned?

Not in the UK. Australia banned engineered stone from 1 July 2024. In the UK the approach so far has been enforcement of how it is cut rather than a ban on the material, so quartz worktops remain widely available.

Lower-silica and alternative surfaces

Manufacturers have responded with lower-silica and silica-free quartz ranges. Natural stones also carry less crystalline silica than standard engineered quartz: marble very little, and granite far less. Porcelain differs from product to product, so ask for the manufacturer’s figure. If silica is part of your decision, tell us when you ask for a quote and we will include options.

Fitting on site

Almost all cutting is done in the workshop. On fitting day, small adjustments can still be needed, and those should be done with water or extraction rather than dry. Ask about it if you are concerned; it is a reasonable question to put to anyone fitting stone in your home.