Story Highlight
– Marek Marzec died from silicosis after cutting engineered stone.
– Family demands a ban on engineered stone materials.
– Silicosis diagnosis linked to cutting quartz kitchen worktops.
– Australia has already banned engineered stone due to risks.
– Family calls for stronger regulations to protect workers.
Full Story
Marek Marzec, a 48-year-old stonemason, tragically passed away from silicosis, a severe lung condition linked to his work with engineered stone. His family is now advocating for a complete ban on the material, which they claim poses unnecessary risks to workers’ health.
Marzec, who hailed from Poland, lost his life in November last year, just seven months after receiving his diagnosis of this debilitating disease resulting from inhaling harmful dust particles. For over a decade, he had been engaged in the stonemasonry trade across London and Hertfordshire, primarily working with quartz worktops, a substance that has become increasingly popular among homeowners seeking renovations.
Recent statistics reveal a growing number of cases of silicosis among tradespeople in the UK, with at least 45 confirmed instances and an alarming average age of diagnosis of just 31. The alarming rise has sparked scrutiny and concerns surrounding health and safety regulations in the industry.
Joe Duggan, a senior reporter who has devoted nearly two years to uncovering the issues related to engineered stone and silicosis in the UK, has been instrumental in raising awareness. His investigative work has been nominated for the British Journalism Award for public service journalism. Those affected by similar circumstances are encouraged to reach out to him for support.
While silicosis has long affected miners and construction workers, medical professionals have noted that silicosis caused by engineered stone can develop more rapidly and may lead to a higher mortality rate, often from shorter exposure periods. Compared to natural stone, engineered quartz is often less expensive and contains significantly higher levels of crystalline silica, thereby increasing the risk of developing the disease when cutting the stone releases hazardous respirable particles.
Speaking from a hospital bed in October last year, Marzec described the dire conditions under which he and his colleagues worked, with dust clouds so dense they resembled a “tornado”, obscuring visibility. His family’s account illustrates his desire to prevent others from suffering similarly, highlighting the need for better safety regulations within the industry.
“The working environment was appalling and we believe Marek’s illness could have been entirely preventable. His employer had other material options that would not have placed his life in jeopardy,” stated Marzec’s family. They are urging for stricter regulatory measures and enhanced protections for workers in the industry, culminating in a call for an outright prohibition on engineered stone.
Australia’s recent move to become the first country to ban engineered stone serves as a benchmark in addressing this urgent issue. Following numerous cases of silicosis among young stonemasons there, many in the UK are echoing calls for similar preventive actions from their government.
Marzec recounted an incident where he had requested a dust extraction device from one of his employers, only to be met with indifference, as he was told he could leave if dissatisfied with the workplace conditions. His symptoms became noticeable during a holiday in 2023 when he struggled to swim distances he normally found manageable. Subsequent medical evaluations in April 2023 revealed he had acute silicosis, and his health deteriorated at an alarming pace, ultimately leading to his diagnosis being classified as terminal.
“My doctors have advised me that I am nearing death, although no one can precisely determine when it will occur,” he expressed from Whittington Hospital prior to his passing. “Initially, there had been talk of a possible lung transplant, but now I’ve been informed that option is no longer viable. It’s an incredibly tough situation, and I would do anything to continue living.”
Marzec succumbed to respiratory failure as a result of silicosis on 30 November. His death was officially attributed to “Artificial Stone Silicosis,” making him the second known casualty in the UK from the disease linked to synthetic stone work.
“Every individual deserves to work without risking their life,” Marzec’s family reiterated. They aspire to raise awareness through their narrative to prevent other families from experiencing similar pain and loss. They wish for Marek’s legacy to be one of change, ensuring that no stonemason faces the threat of silicosis due to engineered materials.
Ewan Tant, a partner at the law firm Leigh Day, which represents Marek’s family, emphasized the importance of addressing the dangers associated with engineered stone. They are currently advocating for a growing number of stonemasons seeking legal recourse after being diagnosed with silicosis due to their work conditions.
“Marek’s story exemplifies the need for urgent action to ensure that no other families endure the same tragedy as the Marzecs,” stated Tant. He commended Marek’s courage in speaking out about his struggles with illness in an effort to help others facing similar threats.
In response to the mounting concern, a spokesperson from the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) expressed condolences to those affected by silicosis and encouraged the promotion of low-silica products, which could significantly mitigate risks inherent in traditional processing methods while maintaining quality for consumers.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has been approached for commentary on this pressing issue.
Our Thoughts
Marek Marzec’s tragic death from silicosis after cutting engineered stone highlights significant safety shortcomings in the industry. To prevent such incidents, stricter adherence to the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations (COSHH) is essential, specifically regarding exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS). Employers must implement effective dust control measures, including adequate dust extraction and wet cutting processes.
Additionally, the lack of a comprehensive risk assessment and training for stonemasons regarding silica exposure represents a breach of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974, which mandates employers to ensure the safety and health of employees. Regular monitoring of air quality and ensuring the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) would further minimize risk.
The article indicates a systemic failure to provide safe working conditions, as Mr. Marzec’s request for safety equipment was disregarded. This negligence signals the need for enhanced regulatory measures, including the potential regulation or ban of high-silica materials. Stronger enforcement of existing regulations and education within the industry about the dangers of engineered stone could significantly mitigate risks and prevent future fatalities.
