The Worktop Fabricators Federation (WFF) is calling on fabricators across the UK to take part in a new survey being conducted by researchers at Imperial College London to help build a clearer picture of the worktop fabrication sector.

The short survey, which takes less than two minutes to complete, aims to establish how many people work in the industry, how many fabrication businesses operate across the UK, and where those businesses are located. Researchers say there is currently no reliable data available on the size and distribution of the workforce.

Wet Polishing in Action

The project forms part of wider efforts to improve health and wellbeing within the sector. Information gathered through the survey will be used by NHS researchers to inform recommendations aimed at supporting workers and improving occupational health outcomes.

The initiative builds on a series of recent WFF-led programmes focused on safety and standards within the worktop industry. Over the past year, the federation has introduced its Quality Mark scheme, described as the first accreditation programme of its kind for the sector, and has worked with manufacturers and suppliers to promote safer fabrication practices amid growing awareness of silicosis linked to respirable crystalline silica dust generated during the processing of engineered stone.

Researchers stress that all responses will remain confidential. Company details will only be accessible to the Imperial College research team and will not be shared with other organisations. As an incentive, respondents can choose to enter a prize draw for a £50 Amazon voucher or nominate a charity to receive a donation.

Dr Jo Feary of Imperial College London and WFF Operations Officer Nigel Fletcher are encouraging all fabricators to participate, regardless of company size, to help ensure the research accurately reflects the sector.

Fabricators wishing to take part can access the survey here. The federation says broad participation will help create the first reliable picture of the UK's worktop fabrication workforce and support future initiatives aimed at improving health, safety and wellbeing across the industry.