Brayton Purcell LLP has released Episode 11 of its podcast, From Dust to Verdict, which delves into critical governmental hearings addressing the growing public health crisis linked to the fabrication of artificial stone countertops. This episode focuses on testimony presented before the Cal/OSHA Standards Board and the U.S. House Subcommittee reviewing HR 5437, a proposed bill that could eliminate legal accountability for foreign manufacturers of crystalline silica artificial stone slabs.
Cal/OSHA Hearing Highlights Health Risks
On January 15, 2026, the Cal/OSHA Standards Board convened to discuss the alarming rise of silicosis cases among workers exposed to crystalline silica from artificial stone. The Western Occupational and Environmental Medical Association (WOEMA), representing over 600 occupational medicine physicians, submitted a petition regarding this issue but was denied a full presentation. Instead, the Board permitted an extensive counter-presentation from the International Surface Fabricators Association (ISFA), which advocates for foreign slab manufacturers, distributors, and equipment suppliers.
During the podcast, host and partner at Brayton Purcell LLP, James Nevin, shared his own brief testimony, underscoring that the firm represents approximately 500 California fabrication workers who support WOEMA’s petition. Nevin pointed out that the artificial stone contains toxic nano-sized particles, primarily composed of silica, along with other hazardous metals and resins. This combination poses risks that are difficult to manage effectively, even in facilities equipped with advanced safety systems.
Medical experts from Cal/OSHA confirmed that more than half of California fabrication shops have documented silicosis cases. Testimony from Dr. Robert Blink, an occupational medicine physician, alongside Cal/OSHA scientific staff, indicated that artificial stone is inherently more dangerous than natural stone due to its particle size, chemical structure, and toxicity. They concluded that safe handling of artificial stone would necessitate the use of “Level A” encapsulated hazmat suits, which are impractical for fabrication environments.
Federal Hearing Raises National Concerns
The following day, on January 14, 2026, a federal hearing scrutinized HR 5437, legislation that would protect foreign manufacturers of artificial stone slabs from civil lawsuits filed by U.S. workers diagnosed with silicosis. In the podcast, testimony from Dr. David Michaels, former Assistant Secretary of OSHA and a well-respected epidemiologist, painted a grim picture of the artificial stone fabrication industry as one of the most hazardous sectors in the United States. He cautioned that limiting legal recourse would remove incentives for manufacturers to mitigate the risks associated with their products.
Members of Congress, including Representative Jamie Raskin and Representative Hank Johnson, voiced their profound concerns for affected workers. They highlighted alarming statistics, noting that many young workers now require double-lung transplants due to silicosis linked to artificial stone fabrication, an entirely preventable condition. Their statements reinforced the idea that the unique dangers posed by the nano-sized particles and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in artificial stone make it more hazardous than natural stone.
In the podcast, Nevin calls on the public to engage with the Cal/OSHA Standards Board and California Governor Gavin Newsom to support WOEMA’s petition aimed at prohibiting crystalline silica artificial stone in California. He also urges listeners to reach out to congressional representatives to oppose HR 5437, which he argues would restrict the rights of workers and families seeking accountability from foreign manufacturers of artificial stone.
Brayton Purcell LLP is a nationally recognized law firm committed to advocating for individuals and families affected by toxic exposures, including those impacted by artificial stone. The firm emphasizes the importance of public education, transparency, and accountability in industries associated with hazardous materials.
For more information and to listen to From Dust to Verdict, follow the link provided.
