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Silicosis Crisis Spurs Los Angeles to Declare Awareness Month

A growing public health crisis has prompted Los Angeles County officials to take serious action. Silicosis—a deadly yet entirely preventable lung disease—is devastating workers in the artificial stone countertop industry. Most affected are younger Latino men, working in areas like the Northeast San Fernando Valley. With more than 322 known cases in California and over half concentrated in L.A. County alone, the Board of Supervisors has officially declared June as Silicosis Awareness Month. This bold move aims to increase awareness and drive meaningful change across the stone fabrication industry.

Understanding the Dangers of Engineered Stone Countertops

Silicosis develops from inhaling microscopic silica dust and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), especially while cutting, grinding, or polishing engineered quartz surfaces. Studies show artificial stone can contain over 90% crystalline silica—far higher than natural stone. These ultrafine particles are nearly impossible to contain, even with robust PPE and ventilation systems. (Fazio et al., Journal of Occupational Medicine and Toxicology, 2025)

According to the California Department of Public Health, L.A. County alone has already seen 180 cases, including 31 lung transplants and 15 deaths. (CDPH Engineered Stone Silicosis Dashboard)

L.A. Supervisors Take Action to Protect Workers

Supervisors Lindsey P. Horvath and Hilda Solis led the charge in recognizing the seriousness of this epidemic.
“We want to make sure that not only are people aware of what this disease is,” said Horvath, “but also what they can do to protect themselves—and what we are doing to protect their health and invest in treatment and care.”

Their proclamation is accompanied by a $500,000 investment in community education and stricter Cal/OSHA safety rules, including mandates for wet-cutting techniques and upgraded personal protective equipment.

Legal Expert James Nevin: Awareness Isn’t Enough

James Nevin, partner at Brayton Purcell LLP and longtime advocate for stone fabrication workers, believes that greater measures are needed.
“Awareness helps—especially if it reaches consumers,” Nevin explained.
“But a lot more needs to be done. What they really should be considering is a ban on artificial stone.”
(Safe Work Australia, Prohibition on the Use of Engineered Stone, August 2023)

Despite existing safety protocols, Nevin argues that the extremely high silica content in engineered stone continues to put workers at risk.
“Silica and other components of artificial stone dust… are far above the PEL [Permissible Exposure Limit],” he said.
“To pretend that if we just license and train shops, somehow we won’t have this problem, is simply ignoring the science.”
(Soo et al., Annals of Work Exposures and Health, 2025)

Legislative Momentum: California’s STOP Act (SB 20)

California lawmakers are stepping up, too. State Senator Caroline Menjivar recently saw her STOP Act (SB 20) pass with full Senate approval. This legislation calls for:

• Certification and training requirements for stone shops
• A public list of compliant businesses
• Targeted education programs to prevent labor abuse

Yet, Nevin warns that even these efforts may fall short if the core problem—artificial stone—isn’t addressed directly.
“There’s this irrational fear among politicians that, if we ban artificial stone, then all these workers and companies are going to go out of business,” said Nevin.
“That just doesn’t reflect the factual reality… Australia has banned artificial stone, and the fabrication companies are still in business.”

Future Outlook: Safer Products, More Accountability

While some manufacturers now promote “low-silica” alternatives, their long-term health effects remain unclear. Policymakers are also weighing silica-content limits for all stone products.
Supervisor Horvath summed up the challenge:
“While I appreciate that people want to have beautiful things in their homes, we also need to protect people’s lives and safety… we shouldn’t be putting people in harm’s way to achieve that.”

Brayton Purcell LLP: Fighting for Those Exposed to Toxic Dust

At Brayton Purcell LLP, our legal team has over four decades of experience representing clients suffering from occupational illnesses, including silicosis. We stand with the stone fabrication community and support national efforts to protect worker health.

Take Action: Free Legal Consultations Available

If you or someone you love has developed silicosis after working with engineered quartz or other artificial stone products, don’t wait. Legal options are available to seek justice and compensation.

📞 Call Brayton Purcell LLP at (800) 361-2417
📩 Or contact us online to speak with a knowledgeable attorney today.