Find the product information you already have
Keep the supplier invoice, product name and any existing technical information with the kitchen scope. CCOHS identifies cutting, drilling and grinding engineered stone as activities that can generate airborne silica dust. If the proposed removal involves those activities, that guidance is relevant to the method assessment. Do not assume that a familiar countertop appearance identifies its composition or an acceptable removal method.
Explain whether reuse matters
Tell the assessor whether the counter is for disposal or hoped-for reuse, and whether cabinetry below is retained. Ask who assesses the method, supports, route and any proposed cutting. Reuse is a preference to investigate, not a guarantee that the counter can be lifted, transported or reinstalled intact.
Resolve any processing before work
If cutting, drilling or grinding is proposed, ask how the responsible contractor will assess and control the resulting exposure. CCOHS guidance supports using appropriate controls rather than treating the dust as harmless. Leave method selection to qualified professionals. Do not trim an edge or drill a test hole as owner preparation.
Get the receiving installer involved
For hoped-for reuse, ask the receiving installer what dimensions, condition and records they need before accepting the material. Keep that decision distinct from demolition completion. Add the agreed outcome to the partial kitchen plan, including what happens if reuse is not feasible after assessment.
Questions to settle before the next step
Use this decision table with the people responsible for your property. Record the actual answers in your private project file.
| Decision | Question or evidence | Next action |
|---|---|---|
| Product | Existing supplier or product reference | Share without destructive checking |
| Method | Any cutting or other processing proposed? | Responsible contractor assesses |
| Reuse | Who accepts the removed counter? | Receiving installer criteria |
Keep your completed record private. Bring the relevant scope questions into the optional project planner or discuss them directly with Clearpath.
Official information
Check the applicable requirements for your property and proposed work with the responsible authority or qualified professional.
Source references reviewed October 8, 2026.