Stone countertops in warehouse

Physicians Petition California to Ban Countertop Material Tied to Deadly Disease

  • by Suvag Patnaik

California doctors, led by Western Occupational & Environmental Medical Association, have formally petitioned state regulators to ban the use of engineered stone. The standard now has highlighted the unique danger posed by engineered stone fabrication, advocating for specific and stringent controls in that industry will be a key element of the final rule.

Western Occupational & Environmental Medical Association (WOEMA) is a professional society representing physicians specializing in occupational and environmental medicine in the Western U.S. It is recognized as a credible, science-based voice in workplace health policy.
  • Bridging Medicine and Regulation: WOEMA effectively translated clinical outcomes (e.g., the negative and often irreversibility of silicosis) into regulatory imperatives (e.g., lower exposure limits and early detection through regular medical surveillance).
  • Contribution to Final Rule: Analysts reviewing the final Cal/OSHA standard see clear alignment with WOEMA's long-stated positions: the adoption of the 0.025 mg/m³ PEL, comprehensive medical surveillance requirements, and extra protections for the engineered stone industry.
From WOEMA’s perspective, their work now shifts to implementation. WOEMA is committed to educating our members and the broader medical community on the new requirements to ensure effective medical surveillance and help employers achieve compliance, with the ultimate goal of protecting every worker from this ancient but entirely preventable disease.