SILICA EXPOSURE ALERT:
Chicago Workers Face Life-Threatening Illness
Date: December, 10th 2024
Updated: December, 12th 2024
Chicago Workers Face Life-Threatening Illness Due to Silica Dust Exposure During Countertop Manufacturing
Today, a 31-year-old countertop worker faces the unthinkable – needing a double lung transplant after developing accelerated silicosis, an incurable lung disease. His father, age 59, who worked alongside him, also awaits a lung transplant. A third worker, just 47 years old, continues battling severe lung disease after three years of exposure.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) paints a grim picture: workers diagnosed with silicosis face an 11-year reduction in life expectancy. Even with a lung transplant, the chances of surviving 15 years are less than 11%.
Employer's Deadly Disregard of Silica Dust Exposure
Federal safety inspectors discovered workers laboring in hazardous conditions at Florenza Marble & Granite Corp., with silica dust levels six times above legal limits. The evidence of negligence is staggering:
- Workers forced to work in visible clouds of silica dust
- No functioning dust control systems
- Improper respiratory protection
- Zero health monitoring or medical surveillance
- No safety training provided in workers’ native languages
- Two insurance companies dropped coverage due to unsafe conditions
Stone Fabricating Workers Must Know Risks of Silica Dust
- Visible dust in the air during cutting or grinding
- Missing water sprays or dust collection systems
- Lack of proper respirator equipment
- No regular medical check-ups
- Absence of safety training in your primary language
- Limited or no dust control measures
Early Warning Signs of Silicosis:
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent cough
- Unusual fatigue
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing during physical activity
If You Have Suffered Silicosis, You Have Legal Rights
If you’ve worked in similar conditions, you have legal rights – regardless of your immigration status or English proficiency. You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Long-term care needs
Don’t wait until symptoms worsen. Early intervention can be life-saving. Our experienced workplace injury attorneys understand the devastating impact of silica exposure and are committed to holding negligent employers accountable.
Contact Silicosis Attorneys Now
- Free case evaluation
- Consultation in your preferred language
- No upfront costs
- No fees unless we win your case
- Call 800-745-4223 anytime, day or night
- Visit silicosis.com/feedback to submit your case details
- Have a family member or friend contact us on your behalf
Note: This summary is for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice.
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