Massachusetts Issues Safety Alert After Silicosis Case in Stone Countertop Industry
State public health officials are urging employers in the stone countertop sector to strengthen silica dust controls, respiratory protection, and medical surveillance after confirming the state’s first work-related silicosis case in this industry.
- By Stasia DeMarco
- Dec 11, 2025
Massachusetts health officials are urging employers in the stone-countertop industry to review and strengthen silica dust protections, following the state’s first confirmed case of work-related silicosis in this sector.
The alert highlights the serious risks of uncontrolled silica exposure and calls on employers to implement engineering controls, dust suppression, appropriate respiratory protection, and regular health surveillance for workers. Employers are encouraged to assess work practices immediately to prevent further illness.
About the Author
Stasia DeMarco brings a strong and varied journalism background to her role at Occupational Health & Safety, having previously served as a multimedia editor, broadcast journalist, professor and reviewer across major news organizations. As Content Editor, she writes news and feature articles, hosts sponsor and editorial webinars, co-hosts the SafetyPod worker health and safety podcast, and manages the brand’s digital and social media presence. She is committed to informing and engaging the safety community through compelling reporting and conversations that support safer, healthier workplaces.