A new industry-backed safety quality mark is being introduced across the UK kitchen worktop sector to protect workers from respirable crystalline silica dust, a byproduct of engineered stone cutting linked to silicosis, a serious and irreversible lung disease.

According to Love Belfast, the scheme has been developed through collaboration between the Worktop Fabricators Federation and the British Occupational Hygiene Society, following growing concern over health risks associated with engineered stone products, which can contain very high concentrations of silica.

Under the scheme, participating companies will undergo annual workplace inspections carried out by trained occupational hygiene professionals. Inspections will assess the use of dust suppression measures including water-controlled cutting systems and ventilation equipment designed to reduce airborne silica particles.

Participating firms must also provide regular worker training, carry out health surveillance checks and follow strict dust management guidance. Products manufactured by approved companies will carry a dedicated quality mark and QR code, allowing consumers to verify that the worktop was produced under recognised safety standards.

Some of the UK's largest kitchen retailers and manufacturers have already backed the scheme, with further expansion expected in the coming months as additional companies commit to the standards.

The launch follows increasing international concern over engineered stone safety. Australia has introduced significant restrictions and bans on certain engineered stone products in response to documented worker health risks, and the UK industry is under similar pressure to address exposure at source.

Industry leaders have said the scheme will also help identify businesses failing to follow proper safety procedures, raising standards across the broader kitchen and stone fabrication sector.

Long-term silica dust exposure has already affected dozens of workers across the UK, many of relatively young age.

Access the full report to learn more about the new safety quality mark and its implementation across the sector.