NSI Expands Safety Advocacy
OBERLIN, Ohio – The Natural Stone Institute (NSI) announces an expanded industry advocacy ad scientific engagement initiative in response to ongoing silica-related regulatory discussions, including recent actions taken by the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board.
In late May, the board voted to approve a petition that could ultimately lead to a ban on the fabrication and installation of high-quartz-content engineered stone in California. While natural stone wasn’t included in the proposed ban, the board also directed a scientific advisory group to further evaluate potential risks associated with natural quartzite and other silica-containing natural stones.
While the original petition focused specifically on engineered stone and the petitioning organization has publicly stated that natural stone shouldn’t be included in the ban, the NSI believes continued engagement is essential.
“Protecting worker health remains our highest priority,” said Jim Hieb, CEO of the Natural Stone Institute. “Workers are suffering from silicosis, and our industry has a responsibility to advance meaningful safety improvements.”
Those improvements include education, training, research and responsible workplace practices. Hieb added that at the same time it is critical that regulatory decisions involving natural stone are based on credible science and accurate data.
The NSI has been actively engaged in silica safety advocacy at both the state and federal levels. Since the beginning of the year, Hieb has testified in front of both a U.S. House of Representative subcommittee and the California standards board.
To further strengthen those efforts, the NSI is engaging an independent industrial hygiene expert to provide scientific review, regulatory guidance and technical expertise.
This support will help ensure future discussions involving natural stone are informed by sound occupational health practices and a clear understanding of the distinctions between natural stone and engineered quartz products.
Funding for these initiatives is being supported through the Natural Stone Foundation, which has launched a matching campaign. Through the end of July, all donations receive an additional match by an anonymous donor up to $50,000.
“The work being done today will help shape how natural stone is represented in future research, regulations and public policy discussions,” said Hieb.
