California weighs emergency ban on making and installing quartz countertops

Workers can breathe in silica dust when quartz countertops are cut or polished.

The dust can cause silicosis, an incurable disease that damages the lungs.

California has reported 662 cases and 35 deaths linked to the work.

The state is considering an emergency ban on making and installing the countertops to protect workers.

Homeowners are not considered at risk from countertops already installed.