The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ calls for a ban on engineered stone products due to potential silicosis risk for workers.

The Asthma and Respiratory Foundation NZ has called for a ban on engineered stone products due to the potential risk of causing lung disease such as silicosis for workers who handle the material. The call follows similar requests from the Royal Australasian College of Physicians and the Thoracic Society of Australia and New Zealand. Engineered stone, commonly used in New Zealand kitchens and bathrooms, contains up to 95% silica, which can cause permanent lung damage and develop silicosis when inhaled. A ban on engineered stone would help protect workers in high-risk industries from further harm, aligning with Australia's planned ban in December 2023.

March 19, 2024
8 Articles