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Brayton Purcell LLP Champions WOEMA's Petition Against Toxic Artificial Stone Slabs

Brayton Purcell LLP has announced its unwavering support for the Western Occupational and Environmental Medicine Association (WOEMA), which recently submitted a crucial petition to the Cal/OSHA Standards Board. This petition, submitted on December 12, 2025, calls for an immediate ban on artificial stone slabs containing more than 1% crystalline silica. The proposal will be presented by Dr. Robert Harrison to the Cal/OSHA board on December 18, 2025, highlighting the urgent need to address a critical public health crisis among countertop fabrication workers, not just in California, but across the nation.

Understanding the Hazards of Crystalline Silica

Artificial stone slabs, often referred to as quartz or engineered stone, typically comprise at least 90% crystalline silica, along with a range of noxious volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and trace metals. The danger arises when these materials are cut or polished, releasing fine silica particles into the air. These tiny particles can penetrate deeply into the lungs, resulting in irreversible and frequently fatal lung diseases.

The nature of silicosis caused by artificial stone differs significantly from traditional forms, manifesting not only after prolonged exposure but also within a much shorter time frame, sometimes just months. This accelerated progression presents a dire threat to the workforce.

The Alarming Statistics

As of December 11, 2025, the California Department of Public Health reported a staggering 450 confirmed cases of silicosis associated with artificial stone, with 25 documented fatalities, affecting workers as young as 24. The median age of those impacted stands at a mere 46, emphasizing that lives are being cut short by a disease that is wholly preventable.

Recent inspections have revealed that 94% of fabrication shops are failing to adhere to silica exposure limits, despite attempting compliance through wet methods and other recommended safety measures. These alarming findings strongly indicate that artificial stone fabrication remains a dangerously unsafe endeavor under current industry standards.

Why Immediate Action is Necessary

The WOEMA petition underscores a fundamental public health principle: the elimination of hazardous substances is the most effective means of preventing occupational diseases. This principle is echoed by major health organizations such as NIOSH and OSHA. Current regulatory efforts have proven insufficient to halt the escalating epidemic of silicosis; therefore, it is crucial for California to take decisive action.

James Nevin, a Partner at Brayton Purcell LLP, emphasizes the urgency of the situation, stating, "Every day without action exposes more young workers to this lethal product. Incremental steps are no longer adequate; California must eliminate harmful artificial stone slabs with over 1% crystalline silica immediately. Lives are at stake."

Learning from Global Examples

WOEMA's petition points to Australia as a successful example of legislative action. In Australia, a prohibition on artificial stone with high crystalline silica content led to a swift market shift towards safer alternatives, such as recycled glass, porcelain, and natural stone. These materials provide similar aesthetic qualities to artificial stone without the associated health risks, demonstrating that safety and consumer choice can coexist.

Not only do alternatives exist, but they are also readily available in the U.S. market, suggesting that eliminating hazardous artificial stone products can occur without significant economic repercussions for suppliers or consumers.

Brayton Purcell LLP's Commitment to Change

Brayton Purcell LLP is actively involved in representing numerous workers diagnosed with silicosis and related occupational diseases resulting from exposure to these toxic materials. While legal recourse is available to those affected, the paramount objective is prevention. The firm strongly advocates for the prohibition of artificial stone slabs containing more than 1% crystalline silica to put an end to this ongoing health crisis.

For more information on the risks of artificial stone silicosis and potential legal avenues for impacted workers, visit braytonlaw.com. This is an urgent call for action to address a significant occupational health hazard, advocating for the safety and well-being of workers everywhere.