Silicosis and Denim Sandblasting: H&M and Levi's take a stand.

Sandblasting is one of several techniques that apparel manufacturers use to create the worn denim look. The process has existed since at least the 1870s, and typically involves sand, or silica: sodium bicarbonate and other minerals like kieserite.

H&M’s and Levi’s Strauss & Co’s executives believe that a move to eliminate sandblasting as an industry practice will encourage other manufacturers to do the same. Effective immediately, both firms will no longer place new orders for sandblasted clothing, and after the end of this year, both firms promise that no active production using the technique will exist in their

The ban is important because no matter how rigorously workers may protect themselves, the threat of respiratory diseases like silicosis and other health threats are a reality. Many emerging economies like Turkey, India, and of course, China have seen the garment industry as a steppingstone to the building of wealth—and workers often pay the price.

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