#USA #California #Brayton Purcell #Silicosis Crisis

Brayton Purcell LLP's Fight Against the Silicosis Crisis

Brayton Purcell LLP has taken a significant step in advocating for workers affected by the silicosis crisis, securing almost $200 million in verdicts and settlements for individuals engaged in the artificial stone industry. This crisis, particularly pervasive in California, arises from exposure to crystalline silica—a key ingredient in artificial stone countertops used in kitchens and bathrooms. Many of these surfaces contain over 90% fine crystalline silica, a toxic substance that poses severe health risks to workers involved in their production.

The Realities of Silicosis

Silicosis, a debilitating lung disease caused by the inhalation of fine silica dust, represents a growing concern among manufacturing workers. What distinguishes this modern variant of silicosis from traditional forms contracted through occupations like mining is its rapid progression. Symptoms can appear within mere months of exposure, leading to severe respiratory issues and, in the worst cases, the need for lung transplants. Many affected individuals are relatively young and find their professional and familial lives drastically altered by this preventable condition.

Significant Recoveries and Legal Action

Among the notable recoveries is a landmark verdict of $52.4 million awarded to Gustavo Reyes González by a jury in Southern California. Additionally, the firm secured over $26 million in confidential settlements for other workers afflicted by silicosis related to artificial stone. These figures exemplify the profound and irreversible damage inflicted by breathable crystalline silica and other toxins released during the manufacturing processes of artificial countertops.

Growing Health Crisis

The silicosis crisis is not just a legal issue; it is a public health emergency. Recent data reveals an alarming uptick in confirmed silicosis cases among artificial stone workers across California. Many individuals diagnosed are in their 30s and 40s, with a significant number undergoing lung transplants due to irreversible respiratory failure. Current reports indicate that more than half of the 1,342 manufacturing shops identified by California's Department of Public Health (CDPH) have recorded confirmed cases of silicosis, raising urgent alarms about workplace safety and health.

A Call for Action from Medical Experts

In December 2025, the Western Occupational and Environmental Medicine Association (WOEMA), representing over 600 occupational health physicians, submitted a petition to Cal/OSHA advocating for the prohibition of artificial stone products containing more than 1% crystalline silica. The petition highlighted numerous studies revealing significant health risks associated with crystalline silica in artificial stone, emphasizing that conventional safety measures, including wet cutting and personal protective equipment, often fail to provide adequate protection.

Congressional Hearings and Potential Legislative Changes

Compounding the issue, a recent congressional hearing on proposed legislation known as H.R. 5437, the Legal Stone Product Trade Protection Act, raised significant concerns among healthcare professionals and advocates. The bill aims to provide blanket immunity to manufacturers of crystalline silica-containing artificial stone from civil claims related to resulting injuries or illnesses. During the hearing, concerns were voiced about the exceedingly high silica concentrations in artificial stone, far surpassing those in natural stone, and the inadequacy of existing engineering controls to ensure the safety of workers during production.

Ongoing Commitment to Workers' Rights

Brayton Purcell LLP stands firmly behind more than 700 affected workers and their families, many of whom deal with lifelong healthcare needs and financial difficulties due to their ailments. The firm continues to represent these individuals, emphasizing that accountability is crucial in upholding the rights of workers impacted by the silica-related health crisis. James Nevin, a partner at the firm, stresses the importance of giving voice to those afflicted and ensuring that their plight does not go unheard.

As the situation develops, Brayton Purcell remains focused on gathering crucial evidence from around the nation while maintaining pressure for the prohibition of harmful artificial stone solutions. The firm is committed to elucidating the urgent need for protective measures in the workplace, affirming that this preventable yet devastating condition does not need to continue claiming the lives and livelihoods of workers.

Brayton Purcell LLP: A Leader in Fighting Occupational Illness

Recognized nationally for its advocacy on behalf of those suffering from occupational diseases, Brayton Purcell LLP pledges to continue its fight for justice and comprehensive legal representation for workers harmed by toxic exposure. Amid rising concerns regarding the artificial stone industry, their commitment to change is both timely and vital in protecting the health of laborers across the country.