#USA #California #Silicosis #Health Advisory

California Faces Silicosis Epidemic

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) has recently issued a crucial health advisory concerning a marked increase in silicosis cases among workers in the artificial stone countertop industry. This disease, an irreversible lung condition caused by the inhalation of crystalline silica dust, has reached alarming proportions, leading state officials to classify it as a reportable disease to increase awareness and responses to this public health crisis.

Rise in Silicosis Cases

According to statistics from CDPH, the confirmed cases of silicosis have surged dramatically from 13 cases in 2019 to 447 cases as of December 4, 2025. This includes 25 fatalities and 49 lung transplants linked to this devastating disease. This rise highlights a pressing need for new regulations and increased safety measures in the workplace, especially considering the median age at diagnosis is just 46 years, with many not surviving past age 48.

The epidemic primarily affects those engaged in cutting, grinding, and polishing processes of artificial stone, which is often marketed as quartz countertops. This material contains particularly high levels of crystalline silica, making workers highly susceptible to developing silicosis.

Localized Impact

The epidemic has not been uniform across California; specific counties have reported higher incidence rates. For instance, Los Angeles tops the list with 236 cases, followed by Orange County with 90, and San Diego with 36 cases. Other notable areas include Contra Costa with 19 cases, Alameda with 15, San Bernardino with 13, and Riverside with 10.

New Reporting Requirements

Starting in June 2025, healthcare providers are mandated to report any suspected or confirmed silicosis cases related to artificial stone manufacturing to local health departments within a week. This initiative seeks to foster better tracking, link affected workers with necessary care, and drive state-level intervention efforts. Nevertheless, instances of underreporting remain a significant challenge, indicating that the actual number of cases could be far higher than those recorded.

Legislative Response

Despite existing stringent regulations by Cal/OSHA concerning safety measures such as wet cutting processes, dust suppression practices, and the use of respirators, many experts argue these measures are proving insufficient. Scientific findings indicate that there may be no safe way to manufacture crystalline silica-containing artificial stone, prompting advocates for an outright ban on such materials.

Senate Bill 20, commencing January 2026, aims to strengthen regulations by requiring CDPH to provide reports about silicosis cases linked with artificial stone to Cal/OSHA for further investigation. This will facilitate better information sharing with local health departments to improve case management.

Resources and Awareness

The CDPH's Occupational Health Division has compiled a range of educational resources and technical guidance for employers, workers, and healthcare professionals to prevent exposure to crystalline silica. Additional information is available through partnerships with the CDC's NIOSH and the American Thoracic Society.

A Call to Action

The updated advisory panel emphasizes the immediate need for a ban on crystalline silica artificial stone slabs to protect workers in the industry. Manufacturers and suppliers are urged to take decisive action to prevent further complications as California confronts this health crisis.

Brayton Purcell LLP, a nationally recognized law firm with considerable experience in toxic exposure cases, is committed to supporting workers suffering from silicosis, mesothelioma, and other occupational illnesses.

For further details or inquiries regarding this pressing public health issue, please contact Nolan Lowry at Brayton Purcell LLP.