New Legislation: Protecting Your Employees from Quartz Dust – What Every Employer Needs to Know
April 9, 2026 marks a significant change in occupational safety and health legislation that affects many industries. Quartz dust is now classified as a CMR substance (carcinogenic, mutagenic, and toxic to reproduction), which means stricter requirements and greater responsibility for employers to protect their staff. At Kunskapskontoret, we know that safety isn’t just about following rules, but about safeguarding people’s health and well-being—and ultimately, creating a more productive workplace.
What does the new classification as a CMR substance mean?
Under the new classification, quartz dust is now considered equivalent to other hazardous substances that require the highest possible level of protection. For employers, this means that you must:
- Eliminate exposure: Prioritize measures that completely eliminate the risk of staff being exposed to quartz dust. This may involve reviewing work methods, machinery, and materials.
- Limit dispersion: If elimination is not possible, measures must be taken to minimize the dispersion of dust in the workplace, for example through effective ventilation and containment.
- Protect staff: Ensure that all staff who may be exposed have access to and use appropriate personal protective equipment, such as certified respirators.
- Ensuring awareness: Everyone in the workplace must have accurate and up-to-date knowledge of the risks associated with quartz dust and know how to protect themselves and their colleagues.
Why is this so important?
Quartz dust, which is generated during the processing of stone, concrete, brick, and other mineral materials, can cause serious lung diseases such as silicosis, COPD, and even cancer. The new legislation underscores the importance of proactively addressing risk management to prevent these diseases. This is not just about legal requirements, but about taking fundamental responsibility for the long-term health of employees.
What you'll get from our course:
Understanding of the new legislation and its implications.
Practical strategies for eliminating and limiting exposure to quartz dust.
Knowledge regarding the selection and use of personal protective equipment.
Increased awareness and safety for the entire workforce.
Don’t let the new legislation become a source of stress. Instead, see it as an opportunity to further strengthen your workplace safety efforts and demonstrate that you prioritize your employees’ health. Contact us at Kunskapskontoret today to book your course on “Quartz Dust – Safe Handling” and take the first step toward a safer, more productive, and happier workplace!
