Blog

Dekton® Material Safety Data Sheet Concerns: A Closer Look

This document highlights potential inaccuracies and shortcomings in the 2013 Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS) for Cosentino's Dekton®, focusing on respiratory silica dust hazards and associated health risks. Here's a breakdown of the key points:

Misleading Hazard Identification:

• The MSDS claims no risk associated with Dekton® under CLP regulation, despite crystalline silica (a hazardous substance) being present and requiring specific labeling and warnings.
• The information on silica content (<11%) lacks context on exposure duration and frequency that can cause harm.

Inadequate Prevention Instructions:

• Instructions like "Do not breathe dust" are impractical, while others like handwashing are insufficient to prevent silicosis.
• Recommending particulate respirators is harmful as they cannot prevent silicosis from Dekton® dust; only air-supplied respirators are effective.

Misleading Exposure Control Information:

• Wet processing is recommended but not emphasized as mandatory for all cutting, grinding, and polishing activities to prevent silicosis.
• The statement about "long-term exposure" causing silicosis downplays the risk of acute and accelerated silicosis within shorter exposure periods.
• "Suitable protection" remains undefined, potentially misleading workers towards inadequate particulate respirators.

Incomplete Toxicological Information:

• The MSDS lacks crucial information on ingredients other than crystalline silica, limiting workers' understanding of potential hazards.
• The carcinogenic risk of Dekton® due to crystalline silica is completely absent, violating safety regulations and worker right-to-know laws.

Overall:

The Dekton® MSDS raises serious concerns about its accuracy, completeness, and potential to mislead workers regarding the health risks associated with exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust. Addressing these shortcomings through a revised MSDS with clear, accurate, and comprehensive information is crucial for protecting worker health and safety.