Silicosis Lawsuits – Silica Exposure from Construction Materials
Case Overview
Silicosis lawsuits address occupational exposure to airborne silica dust particles from construction materials including granite, quartz, and engineered stone products. Workers, particularly stone cutters and countertop fabricators, have developed silicosis—a progressive, incurable lung disease—after prolonged exposure to respirable crystalline silica during the fabrication of artificial stone countertops. The litigation alleges that manufacturers failed to warn about health risks, concealed toxic properties of their products, and breached industrial safety standards required since the mid-1990s.
In August 2024, a landmark $52.4 million verdict was awarded to a 34-year-old fabrication worker in Los Angeles County against manufacturers Caesarstone, Cambria, and Color Marble. The case marked the first jury trial against engineered stone manufacturers in the United States. As of September 2024, California reported 178 confirmed silicosis cases related to engineered stone, including 13 deaths and 19 lung transplants, predominantly in Los Angeles County. Plaintiffs assert claims for negligence, product liability, fraudulent concealment, and breach of implied warranties, seeking compensatory and punitive damages.
Who May Qualify
Anyone exposed to silica dust from construction materials (particularly engineered stone or quartz countertops) in occupational settings who has been diagnosed with silicosis, pulmonary fibrosis, or related lung conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is silicosis and how is it caused?
Silicosis is a progressive, incurable lung disease caused by inhaling respirable crystalline silica dust particles. Workers in stone cutting, countertop fabrication, and construction are at highest risk, particularly those handling engineered stone and quartz products with silica content exceeding 90%.
Can I file a silicosis lawsuit against quartz countertop manufacturers?
Yes, if you developed silicosis or related lung conditions due to occupational exposure to silica dust while fabricating or working with quartz countertops. You may sue manufacturers, distributors, and sellers for negligence, product liability, fraudulent concealment, and failure to warn.
How much compensation can I receive in a silicosis lawsuit?
Settlement amounts vary widely based on injury severity, life expectancy impact, and other factors. A landmark 2024 verdict awarded $52.4 million to one worker; 29 defendants settled in that case, though individual settlement amounts were not disclosed.