New Report from Public Citizen Highlights Artificial Stone Silicosis Crisis Among U.S. Countertop Workers
October 8, 2026
California's decision to prohibit the fabrication and installation of artificial stone containing more than 1% crystalline silica represents one of the most significant developments in the ongoing artificial stone silicosis crisis. The action follows years of increasing concern over the devastating health consequences experienced by countertop workers exposed to respirable crystalline silica during the fabrication of artificial stone slabs.
California has confirmed 660 silicosis cases and 35 silica-related deaths among countertop workers since 2019. The regulation places California at the forefront of efforts to address the growing number of workers diagnosed with artificial stone silicosis.
Artificial stone, also referred to as engineered stone or manufactured stone, is at least 90% crystalline silica. The remaining approximate 10% consists of resins, pigments, and heavy metals that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during fabrication. During fabrication activities such as cutting, grinding, polishing, drilling, shaping, and finishing, nano-sized, high-surface area silica particles are released into the air. Workers who fabricate artificial stone slabs inhale these highly toxic airborne contaminants, causing permanent scarring of the lungs and leading to artificial stone silicosis and other serious diseases.
California's action follows Australia's ban on artificial stone countertops and makes California the first state to implement a similar restriction.
The regulation is expected to have substantial implications for ongoing artificial stone litigation. Lawsuits brought by workers diagnosed with artificial stone silicosis allege that artificial stone presents inherent dangers because of the extraordinary amount of nano-sized respirable crystalline silica particles released during normal fabrication activities. Hundreds of peer-reviewed studies have shown that fabrication of artificial stone cannot be done safely by humans, even with the presence of recommended safety protocols in place.
In comments published by the Daily Journal, James Nevin, a partner at Brayton Purcell LLP who represents hundreds of artificial stone workers, explained the significance of the state's action:
"Cal-OSHA's action would make it harder for defendants to argue at trial that health experts are wrong about the product's risks."
Nevin also noted that the regulation is likely to accelerate the industry's transition toward alternative countertop materials made with recycled glass and other lower-silica components.
The impact of California's decision is expected to extend well beyond the state. In the article, Skyler Romero wrote:
"California would become the first state to impose such a restriction, following Australia, which banned engineered-stone countertops in 2024."
California has frequently served as a national leader in occupational health and product safety matters. As a result, regulators, manufacturers, attorneys, and public health officials throughout the country are expected to closely monitor the effects of the regulation and its influence on future policy decisions.
For workers and families affected by artificial stone silicosis, the regulation reflects growing recognition of the serious and life-changing consequences associated with fabricating artificial stone slabs. While the regulation cannot reverse the effects of artificial stone silicosis, it highlights the increasing awareness of the disease and the dangers posed by the fabrication of artificial stone.
Diagnosed with Artificial Stone Silicosis?
An artificial stone silicosis diagnosis can affect every aspect of a worker's life, including long-term health, earning capacity, future medical needs, and financial security.
If you or a loved one developed artificial stone silicosis, progressive massive fibrosis (PMF), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or another silica-related disease after working with artificial stone slabs, the accomplished attorneys at Brayton Purcell LLP can help you understand your legal rights and evaluate the options that may be available.
Brayton Purcell LLP has extensive experience representing individuals and families affected by occupational diseases and toxic exposures.
Contact Brayton Purcell LLP for a free consultation. Call (800) 598-0314 or contact the firm online to discuss your potential artificial stone claim with an accomplished attorney.