Widows Warn of Silica Dust Risks

The widows of two stonemasons, Paul Gray and Stuart Johnson, who died from silicosis, are raising awareness about the dangers of silica dust exposure in the stonemasonry industry, likening it to the hazards of asbestos. Both men worked for stone production companies in West Yorkshire, where the risk of silicosis is reportedly high, leading to growing lawsuits against manufacturers of quartz countertops. Marek Marzec, another affected worker, is facing a terminal diagnosis and taking legal action against his former employers, highlighting the urgent need for safety reforms in the industry. The Health and Safety Executive has labeled silica dust as a significant risk to construction workers, prompting calls for better protective measures and a national register for stoneworkers. The families of the deceased men continue to advocate for increased awareness and preventative actions to protect current and future workers from this deadly disease.