POWDER SPRINGS, GA -- Federal safety officials have cited a Georgia-based countertop manufacturer for exposing its workers to dangerous levels of respirable crystalline silica, a hazardous substance that can cause serious long-term health issues. The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued seven serious violations against Brazilian Stone Design LLC, a stone countertop fabrication company located in Powder Springs. The company was ordered to pay $33,000 in penalties.

OSHA inspectors determined that workers were exposed to excessive airborne concentrations of crystalline silica, a dust produced during the cutting and polishing of stone materials commonly used in kitchen and bathroom countertops. According to the agency, the company failed to require respirator use, did not conduct fit testing or provide training for workers using respirators and neglected to carry out necessary air monitoring. Additionally, the business failed to implement an effective hearing conservation program.