Silicosis among Workers Fabricating Engineered Stone ("Quartz") Countertops in California, 2019-2026

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Pulmonology
• Public Health Surveillance

Background:

• Silicosis is a severe, irreversible lung disease caused by inhaling respirable crystalline silica dust.
• Engineered stone countertops pose a significant risk due to their high crystalline silica content.
• Previous surveillance efforts have identified a substantial burden of silicosis in California workers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the incidence of silicosis among engineered stone countertop fabricators in California.
• To highlight the severe outcomes, including lung transplantation and mortality, associated with occupational silicosis.
• To emphasize the ongoing need for enhanced protective measures despite existing regulations.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of silicosis cases reported to the California Department of Public Health.
• Inclusion of data on worker demographics, exposure details, and clinical outcomes.
• Review of regulatory and legislative responses to surveillance findings.

Main Results:

• 592 cases of silicosis identified in workers fabricating engineered stone countertops from January 2019 to June 2026.
• 65 workers required lung transplantation, and 31 died due to silicosis.
• Despite regulatory changes, workers continue to face hazardous levels of silica dust exposure.

Conclusions:

• Occupational silicosis from engineered stone fabrication is a critical public health issue with high mortality.
• Effective prevention requires a multifaceted approach involving clinical identification, robust public health surveillance, and policy reform.
• Continued vigilance and intervention are essential to protect workers from silica dust exposure.