Disease once linked to mining hits workers in countertops industry

March 12, 2026

TL;DR

Engineered stone countertops are increasingly popular, but cutting and polishing them releases crystalline silica dust.
This dust causes silicosis, a severe and irreversible lung disease, affecting younger workers in the fabrication industry.
Workers, like César Manuel González and Gustavo Reyes, have developed silicosis and some required lung transplants.
Physicians and public health officials report a sharp rise in silicosis cases among countertop fabricators.
California has seen hundreds of cases and deaths linked to engineered stone since 2019.
Manufacturers assert that safety measures like wet cutting and ventilation can mitigate risks.
Critics argue that materials with high silica content are inherently unsafe to fabricate at scale.
Hundreds of lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers for failing to warn about risks.
Legislation is being considered that could shield manufacturers from liability.
Australia has banned engineered stone containing high levels of crystalline silica due to unacceptable risks.
Some U.S. manufacturers are beginning to offer low-silica products.

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