SUPPORT THE WOEMA PETITION TO PROHIBIT THE USE OF ENGINEERED STONE CONTAINING CRYSTALLINE SILICA

Dear colleagues:

We ask for your support for the recent WOEMA petition to prohibit all fabrication and installation tasks on engineered stone that contains more than 1% crystalline silica.  Click here to read the full letter. You can sign as an individual or organization HERE.

As you may know, there is an epidemic of silicosis caused by engineered stone in California. There are now over 500 cases with 55 lung transplants and 29 deaths. In spite of emergency workplace standards and enforcement by CalOSHA, thousands of fabrication workers continue to be exposed to high levels of crystalline silica dust.  While most cases have been reported in California in the US, additional cases have been found in other states. This is just the tip of the iceberg and it will not stop here.

The engineered stone manufacturers oppose the WOEMA petition and propose a self-certification program that would permit the fabrication of crystalline silica containing engineered stone. This will be expensive, complicated and not likely to succeed in reducing crystalline silica exposure in thousands of small fabrication shops.

As scientists, health care professionals and public health experts, we know the best way to prevent occupational disease is by substituting a toxic product with a safer alternative. Indeed, after Australia implemented a ban on these products in 2024, there are many safer products that became widely available at a similar price and no loss of jobs.

As the 4^th largest economy in the world, California can be a leader in setting new standards that can offer consumers safer alternatives and stop this terrible epidemic.

Please join us with your support.