As an industry trade magazine, I believe that one of the most important things that Stone World can do to benefit the trade is to promote workplace safety.

On page 46 of this issue, you will find an article that — in just over 2,000 words — articulates exactly why OSHA is misguided in how it regulates the stone industry.

In a statement on August 23, 2013, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) issued notice that they intend to reduce the current silica dust exposure rate by 50%.

On August 23, 2013, OSHA released its proposed silica rule -- cutting the exposure limit formula in half -- and a 90-day comment period has been established.

The U.S. Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has cited Venetian Marble & Granite of Helotes, TX, with 10 serious safety and health violations after an inspection found that workers were exposed to unsafe levels of crystalline silica particles. Proposed penalties total $41,300.

When I was in journalism school, I was taught that the editor's column is the most valuable space there is. It is where I get to communicate directly with my readers and, on occasion, to speak from the heart.

Despite all of the information out there on shop safety, we are still hearing about way too many accidents - often fatal accidents. My question is this: How are your businesses addressing the issue of safety in the workplace? How formalized is your safety program? Do you hold regular safety meetings? Have you changed or expanded your approach to workplace safety in the past few years?