https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2019/10/07/767916317/lawmakers-seek-protections-for-workers-against-lung-damage-tied-to-making-counte
Summary: Lawmakers are calling the department of labor to do more to protect workers that are working on cutting engineer stone for countertops. The material contains high levels of the mineral silica, and breathing in silica dust is dangerous. While silica is found in natural stones, like granite, engineered stone made of quartz can be more than 90% silica. This type of artificial stone has become increasingly popular among Americans for kitchen and bathroom countertops in recent years. Even though proper dust control can take away the risk of silica-related disease, at least 18 workers in California, Colorado, Texas and Washington have recently suffered severe lung damage. At least 2 of the workers died of their silicosis, which is a lung disease that can be progressive and it has no treatments. The only way to treat it is to get a lung transplant.
Connection to US History: Government Regulation of Workers' Safety and Health, 1877-1917 because it relates to the unhealthy and dangerous working condition.
Discussion Question: What do you think lawmakers can do to protect these workers that are cutting stone for our countertops?
Give them suits so they dont inhale these toxic materials. They could also give them masks and better health regulation.
ReplyDeleteLawmakers can give them equipment that better protect these workers. Such as, masks that keep the dust from being ingested, or suits.
ReplyDelete