The death of 48-year-old stonemason Marek Marzec, caused by inhaling dust from quartz kitchen worktops, has renewed calls over the longstanding debate about the dangers of high-silica engineered stone.
His family have said his passing was entirely preventable and directly linked to the material he worked with for over a decade.
The case has intensified pressure on campaigners, experts, and industry leaders to push for stronger regulations or a nationwide ban to protect workers from this hidden workplace hazard.
The case of Marek Marzec
Marek, a father of three who came to the UK from Poland in 2011, developed silicosis after years of cutting high-silica quartz worktops in poorly ventilated conditions.
Marzec unfortunately died last November from respiratory failure due to silicosis with his death officially recorded as ‘Artificial Stone Silicosis’.
His daughter, Agnieszka Marzec, said: “He came here to provide for us, and instead he was exposed to a material that took his life. No one should have to die simply for cutting a kitchen worktop.”
The engineered stone he handled contained extremely high levels of crystalline silica, which when inhaled damaged his lungs irreversibly, leading to rapid respiratory failure in just seven months. Marek’s illness highlights the dangers of using these materials in kitchens without strict safety measures.
Industry debate over banning worktop substances
The UK kitchen industry is split over whether engineered stone should remain in use.
Herringbone, a leading kitchen company, stopped using artificial stone in March 2024 and has called for a nationwide ban, citing worker safety concerns.
Paul Dore, managing director at County Stone Ltd, argues that safer handling and workplace practices can reduce risk, but rising cases like Marek’s illustrate the severe consequences of exposure.
Dr Carl Reynolds, a leading silicosis expert, said: “Silicosis is a devastating, incurable, and entirely preventable disease… I can see no justification for artificial high-silica stone use in the UK and fully support a ban.”
Regulatory response and calls for change
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) recognises the risks of silica dust and recommends low-silica alternatives and strict safety procedures.
An HSE spokesperson said: “Our condolences go out to anyone affected by work-related silicosis. We urge all importers and distributors to promote low-silica products and ensure safe processing environments.” Marek’s family believes these measures are insufficient.
Agnieszka said: “We want stronger regulations, better protection for workers, and ultimately a complete ban on high-silica engineered stone. No other family should have to endure the heartbreak that we have.”
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