NSI CEO Jim Hieb joined ISFA board president Ted Sherritt for a meeting of California public health officials hosted by Nate Kolenski at Block Tops, an NSI Accredited fabrication shop in Anaheim. The meeting helped officials understand what a silica safe shop looks like and showcased industry training resources available to stone companies. It also provided an opportunity for questions and brainstorming on how the industry can work together with these officials, who play an important role with government officials and regulators.

Public health officials tour the Block Tops facility, in Anaheim, CA. Block Tops hosted the meeting between public health officials and representatives from the stone industry.

Public health officials tour the Block Tops facility, in Anaheim, CA.

Block Tops hosted the meeting between public health officials and representatives from the stone industry.


Key Outcomes of This Meeting

  • Showing public health officials what a compliant shop looks like. Keep in mind that many of these officials have only seen the worst of the worst. This may be their first time seeing our industry in a positive light. 

  • Highlighting industry best practices and training resources. 

  • Fielding questions about how more companies can be compliant to current silica regulations and allowing open discussion on a sensitive issue. 

  • Establishing a relationship.


What Do Stone Companies Need to Know About Public Health Officials?

  • Public health officials were the first to call attention to the silicosis issue in California. They care deeply about the health and safety of employees, but typically have little knowledge of industry best practices specific to preventing silicosis.

  • They have jurisdiction concerning local health issues and can influence change by politicians and regulators.

  • Often public health officials have only seen the worst of the stone industry: employees working for companies with zero or minimal safety precautions.


How Can Stone Professionals Engage with  Public Health Officials?

  • Identify officials in your area and invite them to your facility for a tour to help them better understand the industry.

Be prepared to field any questions they have about the industry. They will most
likely be eager to learn!

  • Highlight your company’s safety best practices and what you’re doing to be compliant with silica regulations. 

  • Keep the communication lines open.


To learn more, please contact Jim Hieb, jim@naturalstoneinstitute.org .