Manufacturers under scrutiny as engineered stone countertops lead to worker health risks
Rise of engineered stone countertops overshadows dangers faced by workers
Over the past decade, engineered stone countertops made from crushed quartz have seen a significant surge in popularity in the U.S. market. With a vast array of colors and patterns, manufacturers have highlighted the advantages of these countertops. However, new research has revealed a disturbing truth. These slabs often contain exceptionally high levels of crystalline silica, as much as 95%. While they pose no immediate danger to consumers, the workers involved in the fabrication process face a serious health risk. The prolonged inhalation of silica dust during fabrication can lead to a life-threatening lung disease called silicosis.
Worker health at risk as silica dust takes a toll
Many workers who cut and shape these slabs are unaware of the health risks they face, working in dusty environments without proper protective equipment. Silicosis has already affected a significant number of workers, leading to severe health complications and, in some cases, death.
Dr. Jane Fazio, a pulmonary critical care physician at UCLA Medical Center, has been witnessing the devastating impact of silicosis on a regular basis. She revealed that nearly 20% of workers who develop silicosis in California ultimately succumb to the disease. The majority of workers affected by silicosis are immigrant Latino workers, adding a greater social and financial burden to their families.
Worker testimonials highlight the grim reality
Dennys Williams, a 36-year-old worker from California, underwent a double lung transplant two weeks ago, an unexpected turn of events caused by his exposure to silica dust. Williams, overwhelmed by pain and regret, describes his agony as something he wouldn’t wish upon his worst enemy.
Arturo Bautista, a 56-year-old father of three, diagnosed with silicosis, is forced to continue working to support his family, further exacerbating his medical condition. Gustavo Reyes-Gonzalez, 34 years old, underwent a lung transplant in February 2023. Despite the procedure, he still faces a life with reduced longevity. Neither worker was informed about the associated risks when they began their careers.
Legal actions and industry responses
Workers affected by silicosis have initiated lawsuits against the manufacturers. Their attorney, James Nevin, claims that the manufacturers were aware of the major health risks associated with their products.
However, manufacturers have declined to comment on the pending litigation. The Silica Safety Coalition, an industry group, asserts that exposure to silica dust is preventable by complying with state and federal OSHA regulations. The Engineered Stone Manufacturers’ Association believes that licensing programs and enhanced regulatory supervision offer the best solutions for worker protection.
International perspective raises questions about safety practices
After Australia banned the use of engineered stone due to the failure to protect workers from silica dust exposure, concerns about safety practices in the United States have emerged. Despite some manufacturers now offering products with lower silica content and temporary emergency regulations implemented in California, uncertainties remain about the effectiveness of these measures in preventing silicosis.
Workers fight for their safety and the protection of others
Joseph Mondragon, a 33-year-old who grew up around a stone-cutting shop, acknowledges the lack of awareness about the dangers faced by workers in the industry. The revelation about the hidden health risks has left him and others feeling scared and blindsided.
The plight of these workers serves as a reminder that safety and well-being on the job should never be compromised. The global conversation on worker protections and regulations around the manufacturing and use of engineered stone countertops is critical in preventing further harm.
About the Author
Anna Werner, a renowned journalist and consumer investigative national correspondent for CBS Mornings, has extensively covered the issue of worker health risks associated with engineered stone countertops. Her reporting can be seen across all CBS News platforms, shedding light on the challenges faced by workers in their pursuit of a safe and secure work environment. For inquiries and information, please contact Anna Werner at wernera@cbsnews.com.
