Senator Menjivar's workplace safety legislation establishes comprehensive regulations for stone slab fabrication activities in California, targeting the prevention of silicosis and other respiratory diseases among workers. The bill creates a new certification framework for fabrication shops while prohibiting dry cutting methods that release hazardous silica dust.

Under the new requirements, fabrication shops must obtain a three-year certification from the Department of Public Health beginning January 2027. To qualify, shops must demonstrate proper safety protocols, maintain workers' compensation coverage, and ensure workers complete mandatory safety training. The department will inspect facilities before issuing or renewing certifications and may suspend or revoke certificates for safety violations.

The legislation mandates exclusive use of wet fabrication methods that suppress dust through continuous water application, submersion, or water-jet cutting. By July 2026, the Department of Public Health must develop a training curriculum on safe fabrication practices in consultation with apprenticeship programs. Workers and shop operators must complete this training by July 2027 unless already certified through an approved apprenticeship program.

A public database will track certified facilities, enforcement actions, and safety violations. Suppliers face new verification requirements, needing to confirm valid certifications before providing stone materials to fabrication shops. The department will fund oversight through certification fees deposited in a dedicated account, with fee amounts set to cover reasonable regulatory costs.