Massachusetts health officials have issued a safety alert after confirming the state's first case of silicosis tied to the stone countertop fabrication industry.
The illness was diagnosed in a man who spent more than 14 years working with stone products that can generate hazardous silica dust when cut or polished.
Officials warn that engineered stone contains especially high silica levels, raising concerns that more undetected cases may exist due to the disease's long latency period.
While there is no cure, the state says proper workplace controls can reduce exposure to the dust that causes the progressive and sometimes fatal lung disease.
(Photo by JASON CONNOLLY/AFP via Getty Images)
Photo: JASON CONNOLLY / AFP / Getty Images