Approximately 2 million workers are exposed to silica from working with quartz countertops in their workplaces with the bulk of this group working in the construction industry. It is important for employers and employees to take extra precaution and perhaps look for more ways to protect employees that are specific to their work environment, work schedules, and workplace protective gear. In addition, it is important for employers and employees to keep an eye out for symptoms of silicosis: difficulty breathing, a long persistent cough, chest pain, back pain, muscle weakness, night sweats, fever, chest pain, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.
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