#United States #California #Silicosis #Brayton Purcell #CDPH

A Deep Dive into the Silicosis Crisis

California's countertop fabrication industry is currently facing a significant public health crisis, as revealed by the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) in a recent update. The alarming statistics indicate that a staggering 54% of artificial stone fabrication shops in the state have reported confirmed cases of silicosis, a dangerous lung disease caused by inhaling respirable crystalline silica dust. This comes as part of an effort to shed light on the extent of this epidemic, which has now reached critical levels, posing severe risks for workers in the industry.

Silicosis is a progressive and irreversible lung disease characterized by inflammation and scarring of lung tissue, resulting from prolonged exposure to silica dust. Its fatal nature underscores the urgency of the situation. The recently released CDPH data shows that out of 1,276 fabrication shops surveyed, 688 reported silicosis cases among workers, suggesting the issue is far more widespread than previously acknowledged. This calls into question claims made by some foreign manufacturers that the epidemic is limited to a handful of "irresponsible" employers who neglect safety regulations. The reality, bolstered by extensive medical research, implicates the inherent dangers of the materials used in the fabrication process itself.

Many artificial stone countertops predominantly consist of engineered stone, made up of up to 90% crystalline silica particles. This artificial material, when processed—cut, ground, or polished—emits toxic dust that can penetrate deep into the lungs. The insidious nature of these particles lies in their nano-sized dimensions, which significantly increases their potential for respiratory harm, making them far more dangerous than natural stones. Moreover, the risk is compounded by exposure to additional toxic materials, including heavy metals and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can accompany crystalline silica.

Leading experts within the field are now advocating for urgent action, arguing that the current safety measures available—such as personal protective equipment, ventilation systems, and adherence to OSHA guidelines—are insufficient to mitigate the life-threatening risks posed by crystalline silica. The overwhelming consensus from over 100 peer-reviewed studies demonstrates that safe fabrication of artificial stone is virtually impossible, regardless of the safety technology deployed.

In light of these revelations, the Western Occupational and Environmental Medical Association (WOEMA), consisting of more than 600 physicians, is calling for a total ban on artificial stone containing more than 1% crystalline silica. "Artificial stone silicosis is entirely preventable, yet it is killing workers," states James Nevin, partner at Brayton Purcell LLP. He emphasizes that the only foolproof solution is to completely prohibit these hazardous materials from the market.

Interestingly, viable and safe alternatives to crystalline silica-based artificial stone exist. For instance, manufacturers in Australia successfully produce recycled glass slabs utilizing non-toxic amorphous silica, demonstrating that it is feasible to maintain both worker safety and quality in countertop manufacturing. While Australian fabricators continue to operate without the health risks plaguing their Californian counterparts, the pressing need for the U.S. to adopt similar practices is more evident than ever.

As the threat to worker health intensifies, the implications of silicosis extend beyond individuals. Families, communities, and the broader healthcare system will inevitably bear the consequences of failing to act decisively against these preventable conditions. It is essential for anyone who has worked in the countertop fabrication industry and is experiencing health issues to seek legal advice and understand their rights. Brayton Purcell LLP is committed to standing by affected workers, helping them seek justice and compensation for their suffering.

Contact Brayton Purcell LLP today at (800) 598-0314 for a free consultation to evaluate your situation, understand your rights, and encourage necessary change in such an unjust industry.