Behind the Beauty: The Rise of Silicosis Among Artificial Stone Workers

The growing popularity of artificial stone countertops, often marketed as engineered or quartz, has unfortunately coincided with a concerning public health issue: an epidemic of fatal silicosis among young workers involved in their fabrication and installation.

Silicosis is a progressive and incurable lung disease caused by inhaling respirable crystalline silica dust. Symptoms, which can take as little as a year to develop, include shortness of breath, coughing, and fatigue. In severe cases, it is fatal absent a lung transplant.

Artificial stone is composed of a mixture of quartz, resin, and pigments. It contains 95% silica, unlike low silica natural stone like granite, it releases significantly more dust during cutting, grinding, and polishing due to its resin content. This poses a serious health risk for workers exposed to high levels of silica dust without proper protection.

If you are a worker or family member affected by silicosis related to artificial stone exposure, it’s crucial to seek both medical and legal support. Here are two important resources:

• Brayton Purcell LLP: This nationally recognized law firm specializes in artificial stone silicosis lawsuits and can help you understand your legal rights and options.

• Stone Silicosis Center: This website offers comprehensive medical and legal resources, including information on diagnosis, treatment, and legal representation.