Natural Stone Institute and ISFA Release New Medical Surveillance Guidance and Expand Silica Safety Research

 

Contact:
Natural Stone Institute
(440) 250-9222
networking@naturalstoneinstitute.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Oberlin, OH, May 5, 2025 —The Natural Stone Institute (NSI), in collaboration with the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA), has released a new medical surveillance guidance document designed to assist both employees and employers in understanding and implementing health monitoring processes related to silica exposure. This essential resource is available in both English and Spanish, ensuring accessibility for a diverse workforce and reinforcing NSI’s commitment to workplace safety.

Ongoing Research and Future Resources

Recognizing the need for continued research and industry support, the NSI Board of Directors has authorized an extended collaboration with Yale School of Medicine to further study silica safety best practices. As part of this effort, NSI is developing additional resources to enhance workplace safety, including:

• A comprehensive guidance document on air respirator selection and use to ensure proper protection in fabrication facilities. One of the two versions of this pending document will address California’s now permanent guidelines.
• Two additional studies evaluating the effectiveness of silica safety best practices through employee air sampling and medical surveillance data. These studies will provide critical insights to regulatory agencies and reinforce the importance of data-driven safety protocols.

ISFA has also agreed to collaborate in the development of these additional resources, further strengthening the partnership’s shared commitment to improving industry safety and education.

Through these initiatives, NSI continues to equip fabricators with the knowledge and tools necessary to create safe and compliant work environments.

For more information on these silica safety resources, visit www.naturalstoneinstitute.org/silica

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About the Natural Stone Institute

The Natural Stone Institute is a trade association representing every aspect of the natural stone industry. The current membership exceeds 2,000 members in over 50 nations. The association offers a wide array of technical and training resources, professional development opportunities, regulatory advocacy, and networking events. Two prominent publications—the Dimension Stone Design Manual and Building Stone Magazine—raise awareness within the natural stone industry and in the design community for best practices and uses of natural stone. Learn more at www.naturalstoneinstitute.org.