* What is silicosis?
The condition occurs when silica dust is breathed in and tiny crystalline particles of silica damage the lungs.
* How are tradies getting silicosis?
The practice of "dry-cutting" engineered stone products had been identified as a cause of the disease.
Tiny dust particles can be found in engineered stone, which is made of about 90 per cent crystalline silica, a common substitute for marble benchtops.
* What happens when the dust gets into the lungs?
It can cause fluid build up and scar tissue in the lungs that cuts down the ability to breathe. This can lead to lung scarring and cough, weight loss and fatigue.
There is no cure, according to the American Lung Association.
* How long does it take to develop?
Within a few weeks to decades after exposure.
* How common is it in Australia?
A check in Queensland at just 10 workplaces last year uncovered 35 cases of the disease, 11 of which were reported to be in the most serious category.
* How serious is it?
Gold Coast stonecutter Anthony White died last weekend. He is believed to be the first Australian tradesman to have died of the condition. In the US, silicosis reportedly accounts for more than 100 deaths each year.
* What happens now?
Safe Work Australia has prioritised work to address the risks posed by dust exposure in the workplace, including in the engineered stone industry.
The Queensland workplace health and safety have been conducting an audit of the state.
