In a pioneering move, Herringbone, a bespoke cabinet and furniture maker based in Canterbury, has become the first UK kitchen company to ban the use and sale of high-silica quartz. This decision follows concerning findings from various reputable sources, including a report from the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and Australia’s recent announcement to ban high silica engineered stone due to health risks by July 2024.
Owners Elly Simmons and William Durrant, driven by their commitment to health and safety, embarked on extensive research into the dangers of high-silica products. They consulted with stonemasons, both large and small, and engaged with leading experts in lung disease and silicosis, including Dr. Jane Fazio and Dr. Carl Reynolds. Their findings underscored the severe risks associated with high-silica quartz and highlighted the urgent need for industry-wide change.
Recognising that Herringbone alone cannot effectuate a ban, the company has initiated a petition aimed at urging the UK government to prohibit these hazardous products. They argue that with numerous low-silica alternatives available, the continued use of high-silica quartz is unnecessary and dangerous. Silica, which occurs naturally in stones such as granite, porcelain, and marble, ranges from 5-40%, but in engineered quartz, it can be as high as 97%.
The initiative comes as high silica engineered stone faces bans in several Australian states from July this year. Herringbone believes the UK should follow suit. They advocate for other companies to take proactive steps towards eliminating these products and exploring safer worktop alternatives already available in the market.
William Durrant, owner of Herringbone, expressed his commitment to this cause, stating, “We are pleased to have started a conversation in our industry and want to thank everyone for their support so far. Regulations exist, but we see no place for high silica engineered quartz when so many alternatives are readily available. By taking the petition to parliament, we hope to make a significant impact and ensure the safety of stonemasons, fitters, and others exposed to high-silica dust.”
Dr. Carl Reynolds, a Consultant in Respiratory and Acute Medicine at Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, echoed these concerns. “Silicosis is a devastating, incurable, and entirely preventable disease. It kills and causes serious disability in people of working age. The global artificial stone silicosis outbreak is a tragedy. I can see no justification for artificial high-silica stone use in the UK and fully support a ban,” he stated.
Despite the widespread use of high-silica quartz in the UK, the primary risk arises during production and cutting, where dust is generated, posing significant health risks to workers. Once installed, these products pose no danger to consumers. Herringbone’s dedication to using sustainable, ethically sourced materials underscores their plea for clients to opt for safer alternatives, even if it means a slight increase in cost.
Herringbone’s petition represents a crucial step towards ensuring industry-wide adoption of safer practices. The company’s initiative seeks to protect those in the supply chain, advocating for legislative change and encouraging others to prioritise health and safety.
To support Herringbone’s campaign to ban high-silica quartz in the UK, sign the petition. For concerns regarding lung health, contact Dr. Carl Reynolds via carl.reynolds@nhs.net.
Herringbone’s bold stance sets a new precedent in the industry, promoting a safer future for workers and emphasising the importance of sustainable practices. Their efforts highlight the necessity of industry and governmental cooperation in addressing this pressing health issue.