Cam Paranthoiene, general manager of the AGB Group. Photo / Supplied
Paranthoiene has also called for other major industry players to go zero-silica.
“The transition to zero can happen, if more corporates start using it, if every day New Zealanders ask for it,” he said.
“The industry says it supports zero – now is the time to specify it.
“If they do, there will be no need for a ban, because there won’t be enough demand for any other product.
“We can do this through market choice rather than regulation.”
Silica is found in stone, rock, sand, clay and many building materials, but dust from engineered stone is more dangerous because manmade products contain up to 95% silica, compared to 2% to 50% in natural stones.
Tradies overseas have died horrible deaths and survivors are often disabled by severe shortness of breath.
Other common silicosis symptoms, which don’t appear until after disease develops, include a persistent cough, fatigue and weight loss.
There is no danger to homeowners once engineered stone benchtops are installed.
Opening the factory, Nelson MP Rachel Boyack said she was delighted to welcome AGB to the region.
“I want to congratulate AGB for investing in a new factory and products that have significantly improved safety standards for workers,” she said.
“It is also fantastic to have more jobs created in the Nelson Tasman region, especially after the difficult winter our region has faced.”