I Was Just Diagnosed with Silicosis and Worked on Countertops

If you’ve recently been diagnosed with silicosis and worked in countertop fabrication, installation, or polishing, you are not alone—and you may have legal grounds to pursue compensation. Silicosis is a serious, irreversible lung disease caused by inhaling respirable crystalline silica dust, which is released in high concentrations during the cutting and grinding of engineered quartz, granite, marble, and other stone surfaces.

This article outlines what to do next, what legal options may be available, and how to protect your health and rights.

What Is Silicosis?

Silicosis is a progressive lung disease caused by inhaling microscopic silica particles. These particles lodge deep in the lungs, triggering inflammation, scarring, and reduced lung function. Common symptoms include:

Persistent cough
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
Fatigue
Increased risk of tuberculosis and lung cancer

There is no cure. Treatment focuses on symptom management, oxygen therapy, and preventing further exposure.

Why Countertop Workers Are at Risk

Engineered stone products—especially quartz slabs—contain up to 90% crystalline silica. When dry-cut, polished, or ground without proper ventilation or wet methods, they release dangerous levels of airborne dust. Workers in fabrication shops, construction sites, and installation crews are especially vulnerable.

What You Should Do Immediately

If you’ve just been diagnosed:

Get a full pulmonary workup
- Request imaging (CT scan, chest X-ray) and lung function tests
- Ask your doctor to document occupational exposure
Preserve your employment and exposure history
- List all jobs involving countertop work
- Note brands used (e.g., Caesarstone, Cambria, Silestone)
- Save pay stubs, job site photos, and safety records
Request product documentation
- Safety data sheets (SDS)
- Manufacturer labels and warnings
- Any training or protective equipment records
Avoid signing anything from your employer or insurer
- Do not accept compensation or settlements without legal review
- Do not waive your right to sue
Consult a qualified occupational disease attorney
- You may be eligible for compensation through product liability, negligence, or wrongful death claims
- Legal teams can help you file within your state’s statute of limitations (typically 2–3 years from diagnosis)

What Compensation May Be Available

Depending on your case, you may be entitled to:

Medical expenses (diagnosis, treatment, oxygen therapy)
Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
Pain and suffering
Permanent disability
Wrongful death benefits (for surviving family members)
Punitive damages (in cases of willful misconduct)

Recent verdicts have ranged from $250,000 to over $50 million, depending on severity and liability.

Conclusion

A silicosis diagnosis is life-changing—but it may also be legally actionable. If you worked on countertops and were exposed to engineered stone dust without proper protection or warnings, you may have a strong claim against manufacturers, distributors, or employers.

At The Law Office of Melinda J. Helbock, A.P.C., we specialize in silica exposure litigation and advocate for workers harmed by unsafe products and environments. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with silicosis, we are here to help you understand your rights and pursue justice.

Request a Confidential Legal Consultation