Al-Murad Worktops Statement regarding the risks of working with Silica and health and safety practices.
At Al-Murad Worktops, we prioritise the health and safety of all our workers in every aspect of our operations. This is especially the case when manufacturing materials that contain Silica. Silica needs to be handled with the proper care and guidance to reduce any potential health and safety risks. Therefore we have created this statement regarding the risks of working with Silica and health and safety practices.
It is important to note that the end products do not produce any health risks to customer’s once installed, it is only during the manufacturing and fabricating process that stone fabricators are at risk of exposure to high levels through dust. This can unfortunately lead to silicosis and other respiratory diseases. So as a company, we understand the importance of preventing this and make it our utmost priority not just through words but through actions and enforcement.
We recognise that we have a responsibility and duty of care towards our staff and customers and so, we have strict health and safety protocols in place. This ensures the safe use of materials containing silica throughout the manufacturing process.
We ensure that any workers who are exposed to silica are made aware of the risks to this exposure and follow health and safety practices to reduce this risk. It is important to understand that it is only when workers and employees do not follow good practices that health risks can occur. Therefore, our commitment to safety includes but is not limited to, employee training programmes, equipping our workforce with the knowledge and skills necessary to handle silica safely. This includes proper handling techniques, protective equipment and awareness of potential hazards associated with silica exposure.
We understand the importance of responsibility and being held accountable, so we encourage open communication with our workers. As a result, any issues they have concerning their safety and well-being are prioritised and dealt with. We engage with regulatory agencies like The Guild of master craftsmen, the WFF and other agencies to ensure we are following best practices. By actively contributing to industry-wide efforts to enhance safety we aim to uphold the highest standards of responsibility in silica manufacturing.
Our company also follows the ‘handle stones with care’ guidelines which further emphasises the ‘need for protective equipment, water-integrated machinery; safe installation of worktops.’ Our company uses CNC machinery like waterjet cutters and also uses recycled water systems. Our company policy means staff are under the obligation to keep the CNC safety doors closed to prevent them getting any exposure to dust. We also give our workers full training regarding silica and dust exposure prevention. Our installation of an air purifier which extracts dust also helps in safeguarding the health of our workers. Our workers also undergo constant monitoring to ensure they are using their masks and following protocol. Therefore, we can be seen as adhering to nepSi’s Good practices guidance as well as handle stones with care.
As a result, our company’s commitment to safety and reducing the risk of silica extends beyond just words, it is inherent in every aspect of our company. By prioritising health and safety, we strive to make other companies in the stone industry also understand its importance and follow suit. It is only collectively that we can ensure we not only meet but exceed safety expectations, safeguarding our workers and protecting their health.