Silica Exposure in Construction: Health Risks and Legal Remedies in California
Construction workers in California face many hazards on the job, one of the most dangerous being exposure to respirable crystalline silica, commonly known as silica dust. Silica is a natural mineral found in materials like sand, stone, concrete, and brick. When these materials are cut, ground, drilled, or crushed, tiny silica particles are released into the air. If inhaled over time, these particles can cause serious health problems.
Health Risks of Silica Exposure
Prolonged exposure to silica dust can cause a lung disease known as silicosis. This illness can lead to permanent lung damage and may develop years after exposure. Silicosis can make it difficult to breathe and can even be fatal. Besides silicosis, silica exposure is also linked to:
- Lung cancer
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Kidney disease
- Increased risk of tuberculosis
The signs of silica-related illnesses may include coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, and weight loss. Because the symptoms can resemble other conditions, early diagnosis is critical. If you work in construction and experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention and report your findings to your employer and avoid further exposure.
California Laws Protecting Construction Workers
California has strict laws to protect construction workers from silica exposure. The California Division of Occupational Safety and Health, known as Cal/OSHA, has adopted specific regulations to limit the amount of airborne silica in the workplace. Under Cal/OSHA’s rule, employers must:
- Measure the amount of silica dust workers may be exposed to
- Provide proper respiratory protection
- Use engineering controls like water or ventilation to reduce dust
- Offer medical exams and lung health monitoring for workers exposed to silica
- Train workers on the dangers of silica and how to protect themselves
If an employer fails to follow these rules, they may be in violation of California labor laws. This could lead to fines, penalties, and liability for workplace injuries.
Legal Remedies for Affected Workers
If you’re a construction worker in California who has been harmed by unsafe levels of silica exposure, you may have legal options. Workers’ compensation can provide medical benefits and wage replacement for those who are injured or become ill on the job. However, in some cases, additional legal claims may be available—especially if your employer failed to follow Cal/OSHA guidelines or if a third party, such as a contractor or equipment manufacturer, played a role in your exposure.
It’s important to act quickly. California laws have deadlines, known as statutes of limitations, that limit how much time you have to file a claim. Consulting with an experienced attorney can help you understand your rights and gather the evidence needed for your case.
When to Call an Attorney
If you or someone you know is experiencing signs of silica exposure and believes it’s related to unsafe work conditions, don’t wait. Protect your rights and your health today. Call Jonny Law at 800-566-4868 for a free consultation. Jonny Law has experience handling construction worker health and safety cases in California and can guide you through your legal options.
Your health matters. Don’t let unsafe work practices go unchallenged—help is just a phone call away.