Our Mission is to spread the word about this dangerous and deadly lung disease that is affecting California countertop workers. We hope to share resources for how to safely work with artificial stone, how to recognize symptoms that might be signs of silicosis, and to connect at-risk workers with doctors who can help diagnose and treat silicosis.
We also aim to provide information to community healthcare providers in California who see and treat workers who are exposed to silica dust and may need screening for silicosis.
What is silicosis?
Silicosis is a lung condition caused by inhaling tiny particles of silica, a mineral commonly found in rocks, sand, and stones. When working with materials containing silica, dust can form and be inhaled into the lungs, leading to inflammation and scarring, which makes breathing harder. Silicosis usually develops after long-term exposure to silica dust, typically over a period of 10 or more years, but it can also occur after shorter exposures to high levels of silica over a few months or years.
Who gets silicosis?
Individuals exposed to silica dust in their work environment are at risk of developing silicosis. This includes occupations such as construction and demolition, mining and quarrying, stone masonry, sandblasting, and specific manufacturing processes. In recent years, silicosis has been increasingly diagnosed in workers who cut, grind, or polish engineered or artificial stone for countertops, with many cases involving severe disease. Engineered or artificial stone, composed primarily of silica, generates significant amounts of silica dust during these activities.
Learn more about Silicosis