California Board Passes Emergency ‘Engineered Stone’ Safety Rule

The California board that regulates worker safety approved an emergency silica dust rule covering manufacturers that cut and grind man-made “engineered stone” and natural stone.

By a 7-0 vote Thursday, the California Occupational Safety and Health Standards Board approved the emergency temporary standard setting new requirements to prevent workers from inhaling toxic silica dust.

The temporary standard is expected to take effect Dec. 29 and stay in place for one year, when it would be replaced by a permanent rule.

The board opted for an emergency rule to hasten protections for the workers, who are predominately Hispanic immigrants. A regular ...