PWS has stated that it supports the Worktop Fabrication Federation launch of a new industry quality mark aimed at improving safety standards in response to rising concern around silicosis.
The debate around silicosis in the KBB sector continues, with fabricator PWS stepping forward to support a new initiative designed to raise standards across the industry.
Working in collaboration with the Worktop Fabrication Federation (WFF), the company is backing the introduction of a new Quality Mark that aims to formalise best practice in fabrication, particularly when handling quartz materials linked to silica dust exposure.
The move comes as scrutiny increases around unsafe working practices, which have been associated with cases of silicosis – an incurable lung disease caused by inhaling fine silica particles. While regulation and correct fabrication processes are already in place, concerns remain about inconsistent adherence across parts of the sector.
The WFF Quality Mark has been developed with input from across the supply chain and informed by scientific research. It is built around a structured framework that includes independent workplace assessments carried out by registered occupational hygienists, focusing on identifying and controlling health risks.
As part of its development, the scheme has also involved engagement with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), including contributions from its chief executive Kevin Bampton on the importance of occupational hygiene and consistent safety standards.
The WFF is positioning the Quality Mark as a tool to help guide specification decisions, encouraging the use of accredited fabricators and greater scrutiny of those operating outside the scheme.
Chris Wragg, managing director of the Danesmoor Group, said: “Sadly, these silicosis cases are a result of unregulated fabricators and manufacturers that don’t prioritise employee safety or health.
“All of this is entirely preventable, but the responsibility lies with the industry to do it properly – so companies need to be held accountable as a matter of necessity.
“As one of the major companies in the worktop market, we have a responsibility to not only our staff but also to our customers, to ensure we are advocating for best safety and working practices. We are proud to be working with the WFF on this new accreditation.
“By creating a culture of responsibility, transparency and continuous improvement, the industry can safeguard its workforce while maintaining high standards of craftsmanship at the same time.”
With safety and compliance increasingly under the spotlight, the initiative signals a push towards greater accountability in the fabrication sector – and a reminder for KBB retailers to look more closely at how, and by whom, their surfaces are produced.
