In stone-cutting workshops, dust is part of the décor. But what seemed harmless yesterday is now recognized as a major health hazard. We have interviewed several stonemasons at different stages of their careers. They tell us about their experiences, their concerns… and the solutions they have put in place to protect themselves.
Sommaire
✦ Pierre, 58 – 35 years in the trade
“Back then, we didn’t talk about silicosis. It was normal to cough.”
“I started stonemasonry when I was 20. We worked in clouds of dust. Back then, we had no masks, no ventilation. I thought it was normal to end the day with a burning throat. Today, I have incipient fibrosis. My doctor told me it was silicosis. If I’d known…”
✦ Lina, 32 – Journeyman stonemason
“I soon realized that dust wasn’t just ‘dirty’. It was dangerous.”
“When I first got into the business, I was shocked to see some workshops with no air extraction. Fortunately, where I work, we have OberA purifiers and mobile extraction units. It changes everything: the air is breathable, and we’re less tired. We work better, more serenely.
✦ Julien, 41 – Workshop manager
“Investing in a good system means protecting your team.”
“I run a workshop with a dozen tailors. Silica dust is our silent enemy. Since we installed an OberA dust collection system, the feedback has been unanimous: less coughing, less dust everywhere, better working atmosphere. It’s an investment that makes sense in human terms, and also meets regulatory requirements.”
What these testimonials say
- Awareness is still recent among some experienced craftsmen.
- Younger generations are better informed, but are looking for workshops that invest in their health.
- Technical solutions do exist: they are essential preventive investments, not gadgets.
Tools for breathing easier, working better
OberA supports workshops in their transition to a healthier environment with tailored solutions:
- Mobile boxes : ideal for small structures or one-off operations.
- Fixed dust collectors : for centralized, high-performance treatment.
- Air purifiers : for continuous air purification.
Because no job is worth losing your health over.
OberA, a partner for stonecutters.
