#USA #California #Artificial Stone #Brayton Purcell #Silicosis Crisis

Brayton Purcell LLP Responds to CBS News Investigation on Silicosis Crisis

Brayton Purcell LLP has recently addressed the escalating silicosis crisis affecting workers in artificial stone fabrication, emphasizing concerns raised in a CBS News report by Dr. Celine Gounder. This report highlights a surfacing epidemic, specifically among young workers engaged in fabricating crystalline silica artificial stone countertops. Alarmingly, these materials contain over 90% of respirable crystalline silica, accompanied by a mixture of toxic metals, resins, and harmful volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

The CBS News documentary reveals that young workers nationwide are suffering from irreversible lung diseases often associated with extended exposure to mining. Dr. Gounder's analysis pointed out that individuals in their 30s and 40s are displaying symptoms equivalent to those seen in patients with decades of occupational dust exposure. “This situation is a stark contrast to the more traditional cases of silicosis, which typically affected older miners,” stated Dr. Gounder during the segment.

César Manuel González, 37, an artificial stone fabricator, shared his personal story about the hazards of working in a fabrication shop, where fine dust from cutting and polishing artificial stone often settled on his clothing and workspace. After years of exposure, González's health deteriorated to advanced silicosis, necessitating a lung transplant. Despite this invasive procedure extending his life, it comes with lifelong challenges, including the likelihood of infection and the understanding that transplanted lungs have a limited lifespan of about eight years.

Recent statistics indicate a troubling rise in silicosis cases linked to artificial stone, particularly in California, which began monitoring these incidents in 2019. They have documented:

• - 529 confirmed cases
• - 29 deaths
• - Median age at diagnosis: 46
• - Median age at death: 49

Health professionals treating occupational lung diseases across the country have noted a disturbing trend of young patients exhibiting unexplained lung scarring, which becomes apparent upon reviewing their work histories. In interviews, workers stressed the substantial dust exposure they encounter, even when employing safety measures like respirators and wet cutting tools.

Despite manufacturers’ assurances of safe working conditions with artificial stone, many workers and specialists argue that due to the harmful nature of these nano-sized silica particles, it remains an insurmountable challenge to completely mitigate risks associated with its fabrication. Gustavo Reyes, 36, a worker who underwent a lung transplant in 2023, voiced his concerns about the responsibilities of the manufacturers behind the artificial stone: “The industries that produce this stone are accountable due to its inherent dangers.”

As the conversation around accountability intensifies, over 500 lawsuits have emerged against artificial stone manufacturers, highlighting their alleged negligence in adequately warning workers about the risks involved. Simultaneously, there are ongoing legislative discussions that could potentially reduce liability for these manufacturers, igniting public concerns about worker safety.

Dr. David Michaels, a former OSHA administrator, likened the manufacturers’ claims about the safety of their products to outdated assertions made by the tobacco industry regarding cigarette safety. Medical experts reinforce the notion that the distinct high silica content in artificial stone sets it apart from natural stones. According to Dr. Robert Blink, an occupational medicine expert, the process of cutting and grinding artificial stone inadvertently “weaponizes” the silica, making the dust even more hazardous.

James Nevin, a partner at Brayton Purcell LLP, remarked, “The national attention brought by CBS News and Dr. Gounder highlights a crisis impacting countless families. Clear medical evidence indicates that crystalline silica artificial stone slabs are incredibly toxic and cannot be manipulated safely by individuals who breathe. This epidemic has led to incurable diseases for workers, which are preventable if alternative materials are adopted.”

Brayton Purcell LLP continues to advocate for the voices of affected workers to be heard, bringing attention to the severe consequences of their experiences with crystalline silica artificial stone. Representing numerous affected individuals throughout the nation, the firm aims to further raise awareness about this critical issue, encouraging a shift towards safer practices in the industry.

About Brayton Purcell LLP

Brayton Purcell LLP is a nationally recognized law firm with extensive experience in cases involving toxic exposure, including silicosis linked to the fabrication of crystalline silica artificial stone. The firm remains dedicated to ensuring the health and safety of those affected by these materials.