15/10/2026
Should engineered stone be banned, or could stronger safety measures adequately protect the workers who process it?
A Sky News investigation found safety concerns at 56% of the engineered stone businesses visited, with enforcement notices issued at nearly 40% of those sites.
Simon Matthews, Senior Associate at Slater and Gordon, explains why exposure to silica dust can cause rapidly progressing forms of silicosis and shares his expert opinion on whether tighter safety measures go far enough.
He also answers a question many consumers may have: are engineered stone worktops dangerous once installed in the home, or does the main risk arise during processing?
Simon also raises concerns about the limited use of existing safety procedures that could significantly reduce workers’ exposure to silica dust.
Watch the full interview to hear Simon explain how stronger safety standards could help protect workers exposed to silica dust from engineered stone.
Footage courtesy of Sky News.