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Cosentino Under Scrutiny for Worker Silicosis: A Timeline of Events

Cosentino, a leading manufacturer of quartz countertops, has faced legal and public scrutiny in recent years regarding silicosis, a deadly lung disease linked to silica dust exposure. Here's a timeline of key events:

February 7, 2023:

• Negligence Admission: Cosentino owner Francisco Martinez admits in court to covering up dangers of its Silestone product, allegedly causing nearly 1,900 worker silicosis cases.
• Suspended Sentence: Martinez receives a six-month suspended sentence for five counts of serious injury due to gross negligence, as part of a plea bargain.
• Cosentino's Defense: The company claims the plea deal only applies to five workers at a specific workshop and cannot be extrapolated to other cases.

February 22, 2023:

• Calls for Ban: Cosentino, alongside health groups, advocate for a ban on high-silica artificial stone products to curb the silicosis epidemic.
• Cosentino's Proposal: The company proposes using lower-silica products (below 40%) and urges immediate action from governments.

July 8, 2023:

• Second Trial: Martinez faces another trial in Bilbao for silicosis cases at a Vizcaya marble factory.
• Prosecution's Case: Prosecutors accuse Cosentino and Levantina (another manufacturer) of reckless endangerment, seeking one and a half years' imprisonment for Martinez.
• Cosentino's Defense: The company denies wrongdoing, claiming it provided safety information and disputes Levantine's role.

Key Points:

• Cosentino has faced legal action for its alleged role in worker silicosis cases.
• The company has admitted negligence in one case but denies wrongdoing in others.
• Calls for stricter regulations and product bans have gained momentum.
• The ongoing legal proceedings will determine the full extent of Cosentino's responsibility.