October 14, 2026
Silicosis Deaths Prompt Move to Ban Engineered Stone Countertops in California
Workers who cut, grind and polish engineered stone can face serious health risks from exposure to respirable crystalline silica. Now, California is moving toward a ban on the fabrication and installation of artificial stone products containing more than 1% crystalline silica.
The California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board (Cal/OSHA) recently directed state regulators to expedite an emergency rule following calls from medical experts concerned about the growing number of silicosis cases among countertop workers. At the same time, regulators will establish scientific and advisory committees to examine the potential impact of the proposed restrictions on the industry and worker safety.
The action follows a sharp increase in silicosis among workers who cut, grind, polish and fabricate engineered stone countertops—work that can generate high concentrations of respirable silica dust.
About California’s Artificial Stone Silicosis Cases
Across California, more than 560 workers have contracted an aggressive form of silicosis from inhaling toxic crystalline silica dust while working with artificial stone. At least 31 people have died from silicosis and nearly 60 people have undergone lung transplants, with about 75% of these cases having been confirmed over the past three years.
Understanding the Proposed California Ban: FAQs
| Question | Response |
|---|---|
| Does the proposed California rule ban existing countertops? | No—existing countertops would not need to be removed or replaced. |
| Would the rule apply outside California? | No, and a nationwide ban appears unlikely. |
| What would the rule cover? | Within the state of California, the rule would cover fabricating high-silica engineered stone and installing high-silica engineered stone. |
| When would the rule take effect? | Rulemaking is still in progress. Cal/OSHA has not yet published a final emergency regulation or announced an effective date. |
How can Workers Reduce Exposure to Crystalline Silica?
The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) recommends the following measures to reduce exposure to crystalline silica in the workplace:
- Recognize when silica dust may be generated and plan ahead to eliminate or control dust at the source
- Maintain dust control systems and ensure they are in good working order
- Wear disposable or washable protective clothes at the work site
- Use respirators to supplement effective source controls
- Shower if possible and change into clean clothes before leaving the work site to prevent contamination of cars and homes.
However, numerous safety advocates and work safety experts warn that none of these
measures are sufficient to protect workers fabricating artificial stone products.
What is Silicosis?
Silicosis is an irreversible lung disease that develops when a person repeatedly inhales respirable crystalline silica. The risk is particularly significant for workers who fabricate engineered stone, which can contain more than 90% crystalline silica. Tasks such as sawing, grinding, drilling and polishing the material can produce microscopic particles that become airborne and, when adequate dust controls are not in place, can be inhaled into the deepest parts of the lungs.
Once silica particles reach the lungs, they can trigger an inflammatory response as the body attempts to eliminate them. Continued exposure can cause that inflammation to persist and lead to the buildup of scar tissue. As the scarring progresses, the lungs can become less flexible and less able to function normally, making it increasingly difficult to breathe and reducing the amount of oxygen the lungs can deliver to the body.
There is no cure that can reverse the lung damage caused by silicosis, but treatment can help control symptoms and manage complications. Depending on the severity of the disease, treatment may involve medication, supplemental oxygen, pulmonary rehabilitation or other supportive care. For people with advanced silicosis and severe loss of lung function, a lung transplant may ultimately be necessary.