Durable and elegant, quartz countertops are common in most kitchens around the world. However, the famous mineral is under fire from many who argue that the product should be banned.
That’s because the material, which is cheaper than granite or marble, has been linked to 11 cases, including one death, of chronic lung disease in the UK over the past year.
Cases have been found in workers who produced or processed quartz and were exposed to crystalline silica. Many argue that, as in Australia, the sale of this type of furniture should be banned to protect professionals who work with the material.
Until a more definitive solution is made, measures should be taken to reduce worker exposure. Conventional kitchen countertops made from quartz, one of the hardest minerals, are typically 90% quartz and 10% resin and pigments.