Concerns Over Engineered Stone in California
Robert Blink, an occupational medicine doctor based in San Francisco, expressed serious concerns about the dangers posed by engineered stone materials, saying, “As long as this dangerous material is available and used in California, it’s inevitable that people will continue to be exposed and die. There’s always resistance to change. But with something this dangerous that’s literally killing people, we’ve got to put a stop to this. This isn’t a time for small measures.”
Engineered stone can contain over 90% crystalline silica, significantly more than natural stones like marble. Its popularity comes from its stain-resistant properties, attractive colors and designs, and often lower cost compared to natural alternatives. However, many consumers aren’t even aware of the risks that artificial stone dust poses for the workers involved in fabricating and installing countertops.
There’s growing scientific evidence indicating that even minimal exposure to silica dust can be highly toxic and detrimental to workers’ health. The extremely fine particles can slip past filter masks and get trapped in lung tissue, leading to severe scarring and injury, affecting individuals—even those as young as their 20s.
Reports of silicosis have emerged from various states including Illinois, Utah, Colorado, and Massachusetts, among others, where the disease isn’t monitored as closely as in California. It’s widely believed that the actual number of cases is greater than reported. Other countries like Israel and Spain have also faced increased cases linked to engineered stone. In the UK, medical professionals are calling for a ban on the material.
James Nevin, an attorney representing numerous sick workers, mentioned that clients are based in 16 states including New York, Nevada, Florida, Kentucky, and Hawaii. This suggests a broader issue beyond California.
Currently, California prohibits dry cutting of engineered stone, requiring the use of wet methods that involve water to minimize dust. Additionally, employers are obligated to implement local exhaust ventilation and ensure workers wear appropriate respirators.
However, inspections by Cal/OSHA have revealed that many shops—120 have been visited in the last two years—were not complying with the regulations, which are often viewed as costly and difficult for employers to enforce. In total, there are about 4,600 countertop fabrication workers in California.
Major manufacturers like Caesarstone, based in Israel, did not respond to inquiries about the proposed ban in California but previously opposed a similar prohibition in Australia. Cosentino, a company from Spain, declined to comment but stated that silicosis can be prevented with appropriate safety measures.
Both firms are facing numerous lawsuits in the U.S. and abroad from workers alleging silica-related health issues. While they have created crystalline silica-free products for the Australian market, they continue to sell high-silica engineered stone in the U.S.
