Quartz worktops are the crown jewel of modern kitchens - sleek, durable, and undeniably beautiful. But behind every polished surface is a manufacturing process that, if not done safely, can have devastating consequences for the people who make and install them.
At the heart of the issue is crystalline silica - a naturally occurring mineral found in granite, engineered stone, and other stone products. In solid form, it’s completely safe. The danger comes when the stone is cut, ground, drilled, or polished, releasing tiny airborne particles called respirable crystalline silica (RCS).
Breathing in RCS can cause irreversible lung scarring (silicosis), chronic breathing problems, and even lung cancer. While you, the end user, won’t be exposed, the workers making and fitting your worktop could be - unless their employer is committed to world-class safety standards.
Not all companies treat health and safety equally.
Some rogue operators cut corners - literally - by skipping dust suppression, ignoring air quality testing, and failing to provide staff with adequate protective equipment. This not only puts lives at risk but also drives down costs unfairly, making it harder for responsible businesses to compete.
By contrast, reputable manufacturers like Gemini Worktops go above and beyond UK legal requirements under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations 2002.
Here’s what the best in the business do:
When you’re planning your dream kitchen, ask your supplier:
If they can’t answer confidently - or if they dodge the question - consider it a red flag.
Choosing a worktop is about more than colour and cost. By supporting companies that prioritise safety, you’re helping to drive rogue operators out of the market and protecting the skilled craftspeople who bring your kitchen vision to life.
Beautiful kitchens start with safe hands. When you choose a kitchen worktop from a company that cares about its people, you’re investing in quality, ethics, and peace of mind.
Following the great success of last year's Gem Awards, we're once again searching for the best kitchens of 2025!
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