How Long Does It Take for Silicosis to Develop From Engineered Stone Exposure? 2024

Silicosis is a progressive lung disease that is caused by the inhalation of crystalline silica dust. This silica dust is often found in industries like stone cutting, mining, and construction, and with the increasing use and popularity of engineered stone — which contains high levels of crystalline silica — workers in these industries are likely wondering, “How long does it take for silicosis to develop from engineered stone exposure?”

If only the answer were simple. The development of silicosis depends on several factors, including the intensity and duration of exposure to silica dust, so let’s discuss those factors, as well as the weight they carry when discussing silicosis.

How Long Does It Take for Silicosis to Develop?

After exposure to engineered stone, the time it takes for silicosis to develop can vary greatly. It can depend upon the level and duration of exposure, as well as individual factors like a worker’s pre-existing health conditions. In general, silicosis can take several years or even decades to develop, but the disease’s progression is often influenced by:

1. The amount of silica dust inhaled. Higher levels of exposure to silica dust can not only increase the likelihood of developing silicosis, but its onset can develop sooner. Workers who cut, grind, or polish engineered stone — without proper safety measures — can be exposed to hazardous amounts of dust.
2. The duration of exposure. The longer the exposure to silica dust, the more likely it is that silicosis can develop. Workers with long-term exposure to silica, even at lower concentrations, are at risk. It typically takes years (often 5 to 10 years or more) of repeated exposure for symptoms to manifest.
3. Intensity of exposure. If workers are exposed to high concentrations of silica dust on a daily basis, the onset of silicosis may be faster. Short bursts of high exposure can lead to quicker onset than prolonged, lower exposure.

Types of Silicosis and Their Development Timeline

There are three recognized types of silicosis, each with a different timeline for development:

1. Chronic silicosis. This is the most common form, resulting from long-term, low-to-moderate exposure to silica dust, typically over the course of 10 to 20 years. The symptoms develop gradually and may not be noticeable for many years.
2. Accelerated silicosis. This form develops after 2 to 10 years of exposure to high levels of silica dust. It progresses more quickly than chronic silicosis and can cause severe lung damage within a short time frame.
3. Acute silicosis. This is a rare but severe form of silicosis that can develop after only a few months to 2 years of very high exposure to silica dust. Acute silicosis can cause rapid respiratory failure after the onset of symptoms and is often fatal.

What Happens During Silicosis Development?

Once silica dust is inhaled, it settles deep in the lungs, where the body’s immune system attempts to eliminate the foreign particles. However, because crystalline silica is so tough and resistant to being broken down, the body cannot fully remove it. White blood cells attack the silica particles, which can lead to inflammation and the formation of scar tissue in the lungs.

Over time, this scar tissue, known as “fibrosis,” reduces the lungs’ ability to expand and contract, making it difficult for the person to breathe.

As silicosis progresses, symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath, and fatigue may become more pronounced. The severity of these symptoms depends on the extent of the lung damage.

Risk Factors for Faster Development of Silicosis

Several factors can accelerate the development of silicosis:

• High-dust environments. Workplaces where silica dust is generated in high quantities — like those involving the cutting, grinding, and polishing of engineered stone — pose a greater risk for faster development of the disease.
• Inadequate protective measures. Workers who do not use proper protective equipment, like respiratory protection (N95 respirators or more advanced filters) and do not work in well-ventilated areas are at greater risk. The absence of these safety measures can speed up the onset of silicosis.
• Pre-existing lung conditions. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), may develop silicosis more quickly than those with healthy lungs. These individuals may also experience more severe symptoms once the disease sets in.
• Cumulative exposure. Short, high-intensity exposures over time, like working on several jobs with high silica dust levels, can add up to a higher cumulative dose of dust and lead to faster disease development.

Protecting Workers From Silicosis

To prevent the development of silicosis, it is essential to reduce exposure to silica dust. Some protective measures include:

• Using respirators. Workers should wear proper respiratory protection to filter out silica dust, especially when cutting or grinding engineered stone.
• Ventilation systems. Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) should be used to capture dust at its source, and air filters should be regularly maintained to reduce dust in the air.
• Water suppression. Using water to dampen dust when cutting, grinding, or polishing engineered stone can significantly reduce airborne silica particles.
• Regular health monitoring. Workers should undergo regular health checks and lung function tests to catch any early signs of silicosis.

FAQs

Q: Can Engineered Stone Silicosis Affect Younger Workers?

A: Yes. Younger workers are particularly vulnerable to silicosis from engineered stone because they may experience intense exposure early in their careers. Accelerated or acute silicosis can appear within years, impacting their long-term health and career prospects. It is very important for all exposed workers — old and young alike — to keep up with their health appointments and seek out a pulmonologist who can keep an eye on any lung function changes.

Q: Does Engineered Stone Silicosis Affect Lung Cancer Risk?

A: Yes. Prolonged exposure to silica dust can significantly increase the risk of lung cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies silica as a known human carcinogen, which makes prevention and early detection crucial. Once silicosis sets in, there is very little doctors can do. That’s why education in safety protocols and exposure prevention is so important.

Q: Can Silicosis Be Reversed?

A: No, silicosis is irreversible. However, early detection and intervention can slow the disease’s progression and improve your quality of life. Treatments mainly focus on managing symptoms and preventing complications, but you can take precautions to limit your exposure to silica dust — mask up, use water suppression, and ensure that your workspace is properly ventilated.

Q: How Can Employers Reduce Silica Exposure Risks?

A: Employers can minimize risks by providing proper ventilation, offering training programs, supplying high-quality PPE, and implementing water suppression systems. They must also comply with silica exposure regulations to ensure the safety of all of their workers. If you suspect that your employer is not adhering to OSHA safety standards, then be sure to file a complaint with either your safety representative or OSHA to initiate an investigation.

Experienced Silicosis Attorneys

Because silicosis is progressive and irreversible, it is crucial for workers to take preventative measures to reduce their exposure to silica dust and for employers to ensure safe working conditions.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with silicosis and you believe your employer is at fault, there could be legal recourse. With the help of Wallace & Graham, P.A., you can fight for your rights. Our experienced silicosis lawyer has decades of experience handling toxic exposure litigation cases with millions of dollars awarded to our clients. Don’t let them get away with it. Together, we can bring them to justice.

Contact us today to schedule a consultation.