In September 2019, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued a report entitled “Severe Silicosis in Engineered Stone Fabrication Workers — California, Colorado, Texas and Washington, 2017–2019.” National Public Radio (NPR) followed up on that report by issuing several articles referencing silicosis cases in the U.S. and other countries.
The threat of silica exposure is not a new story. However, these reports are a strong reminder that stone companies must be diligent about reducing the risks to workers. The Natural Stone Institute recommends the following.