What Is Silicosis? What To Know As Hundreds Fall Ill From Stone Countertops
Summary
Hundreds of workers in California who cut and shape engineered-stone countertops have been diagnosed with silicosis, a serious lung disease caused by inhaling fine silica dust. The California Department of Public Health reported 592 confirmed cases from 2019 to 2026, with 31 deaths and 65 workers needing lung transplants.Key Facts
- Silicosis is a lung disease caused by breathing in tiny silica dust particles that damage the lungs permanently.
- Engineered stone used for countertops can contain over 90% crystalline silica.
- Cutting, grinding, or polishing these stones releases silica dust into the air, putting workers at risk.
- Symptoms include cough, fatigue, shortness of breath, and chest pain, but some people may have no obvious signs.
- The disease is incurable but preventable with proper protections.
- California is tracking the largest known outbreak in the U.S., but other states also have cases.
- Silicosis can take years to develop, but high exposures cause faster illness.
- The reported cases likely underestimate the true number of workers affected.
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