Greens MP Jeremy Buckingham is calling for a pause of the production and sale of engineered stone until its safety can be guaranteed.
The debilitating disease silicosis has seen a rise in diagnoses among stonemasons, as the cutting of stone products leave toxic dust, containing silica, in the air for the workers to breathe in.
Mr Buckingham says having worked as a stonemason for 14 years, he himself is at risk of developing silicosis.
The MP is calling for a nationwide ban on hazardous artificial stone products to ensure safety for Hunter workers. However, he is not hopeful.
"Sadly, I expect the industry will take a leaf out of the James Hardie playbook - push back hard against moves for a ban on the product and ignore the urgent need for better work safety," he said.
While there is uncertainty as to how many workers in the Hunter are affected by silicosis, Mr Buckingham is urging fellow stonemasons to get tested.
"If you're a current or former stonemason, even if you don't have symptoms or have used a mask, please see your medical professional and find out if you're affected," he said.
