Editor's Note
This editor’s note highlights the key facts and market implications behind “Multiple Deaths Among Kitchen Fitters: Why You S”, with emphasis on sourcing, product fit, fabrication, logistics, or buyer impact.
Multiple Deaths Among Kitchen Fitters: Why You Should Ban Quartz Countertops
Several cases of death or serious illness have been diagnosed worldwide among kitchen fitters and workers who cut or polish the artificial quartz used for countertops. A request has been made to ban this material in Europe.
The renovation of modern kitchens could be the source of an unsuspected health tragedy. The cause: artificial quartz countertops, favored for their reduced cost and lightness compared to marble or granite. This material is implicated in a worrying increase in cases of silicosis, an incurable lung disease.
Silicosis Cases Double in England
According to the newspaper i, silicosis cases have doubled among British artisans, exposed to toxic dust when they cut or polish these surfaces. Since last year, sixteen young workers, with an average age of 34, have been diagnosed with this pathology in southeast England. These cases of death or occupational diseases raise the question of the product's danger in the context of inappropriate domestic use.
Silicosis, caused by prolonged inhalation of crystalline silica dust, leads to lung inflammation and fibrosis (scarring of tissue). This natural compound is present in many stones like granite, sand, or clay, but its concentration reaches up to 97% in artificial quartz. These fine dust particles, generated during cutting and grinding, are classified as carcinogenic and represent a major risk for stonemasons and installers.
A Call for a Ban in Europe
Faced with these dangers, Australia took a step by banning the use of these artificial stones in 2024. In New Zealand, a coalition of unions and public health experts is pressuring the government to adopt a similar measure. And this summer, a group of Dutch and British doctors called for a ban at the European level of quartz composite.
In France, alerted by the Emergence working group of the national network for vigilance and prevention of occupational pathologies, ANSES (National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety) sent a report to the Ministry of Labor in 2016 on the risk of severe silicosis faced by people working with "artificial stone," although these materials have not yet been banned.
Alternatives Exist
While artificial quartz countertops continue to appeal for their aesthetics and resistance, safer alternatives are emerging on the market. Some manufacturers now offer low-silica versions, imitating the veins and colors of marble.
Other materials like porcelain, naturally low in silica and highly resistant, are gaining popularity. Dekton, an innovative material made from glass, porcelain, and quartz, manufactured by a Spanish company, also stands out for its durability and resistance to UV rays, stains, and thermal shock. Finally, wood options, sometimes made from recycled tree waste, offer an ecological and safe alternative. While awaiting stricter government measures, artisans and consumers are urged to favor these solutions to avoid a health crisis that could expand.
Source: Read the original article | Published: November 24, 2024