This state wants to ban these popular kitchen countertops

Key Points:

• California is poised to become the first U.S. state to ban the manufacturing and fabrication of quartz countertops due to a surge in silicosis cases among workers exposed to silica dust from the material.
• Quartz countertops, made primarily of crushed quartz and resin, contain higher levels of silica than natural stones, leading to severe lung disease risks during cutting, grinding, and other fabrication processes.
• Since 2019, California has reported 662 silicosis cases linked to quartz countertop work, including 35 deaths and 75 lung transplants, predominantly affecting Latino workers with a median age of death at 52.
• The California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board is reviewing a proposed emergency order to ban quartz countertop fabrication containing more than 1% crystalline silica, with a final decision expected within a year.
• The proposed ban focuses on workplace fabrication activities and includes exceptions for minor installations and repairs, without restricting the sale or use of existing quartz countertops in homes.