The process involved in manufacturing artificial stone countertops poses a serious health risk for workers. Artificial stone contains high levels of silica, and prolonged exposure to silica dust can lead to a severe lung disease known as silicosis. Unfortunately, because these countertops have become so popular in new and remodeled homes, more workers may be at risk than ever before, and there may be an increase in artificial stone silicosis lawsuits.
What Is Silicosis?
Silicosis is “a type of pulmonary fibrosis, a lung disease caused by breathing in tiny bits of silica, a common mineral found in sand, quartz and many other types of rock,” the American Lung Association reported.
“Silicosis mainly affects workers exposed to silica dust in jobs such as construction and mining. Over time, exposure to silica particles causes scarring in the lungs, which can harm your ability to breathe.”
According to the Association, some of the more mild symptoms of silicosis include:
- Cough
- Sputum
- Progressive shortness of breath
However, the scarring may worsen, and “the first real signs of a problem may be an abnormal chest X-ray and a slowly developing cough.” Severe lung scarring may result in:
- Bronchitis-like symptoms such as persistent cough, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing
- Weakness
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Night sweats
- Leg swelling
- Bluish discoloration of the lips
Finally, the Association noted, “Because the disease affects the immune system, silicosis patients are vulnerable to developing tuberculosis, lung cancer, COPD and kidney disease.”
In one case, a fabrication worker who developed silicosis was awarded more than $50 million after he needed a double-lung transplant in February 2023.
Seeking Compensation for Silicosis Complications
Many workers in the stone fabrication industry, particularly those working with engineered stone, are at risk of developing silicosis, and more stone needs to be cut all the time for things like new countertops in homes. Although employers are required to take precautions to protect workers, many cut corners, and failure to protect workers has led to an increase in lawsuits.
You may be able to file a silicosis lawsuit if you or a loved one were:
- Exposed to silica dust in the process of labor as a stone fabrication worker
- Developed an illness linked to silica dust exposure after that exposure
Victims are now seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. The team at Phillips Law Group may be able to help you or a loved one who’s suffered seek justice through an artificial stone silicosis lawsuit.
Work With Phillips Law Group
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with silicosis after working with artificial stone, you may be eligible to file an artificial stone silicosis lawsuit.
Our firm is dedicated to holding negligent employers and manufacturers accountable, and we have a proven record of success in personal injury law. After more than 30 years in business, Phillips Law Group is a trusted voice and legal advocate in the Arizona community.
We understand the devastating impact of this disease and will fight for the compensation you deserve through an artificial stone silicosis lawsuit if that is the right legal option for you to pursue. Please contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation, and let us help you navigate the legal process by your side.
Call 602-222-2222 to speak to a member of our dedicated legal team today.
Available 24/7