When we go to work to support our families, we reasonably expect to be safe. However, some careers result in repeated, long-term exposure to toxic materials, such as silica, that can lead to severe illness or death. It is important for Orange County workers to know what materials can cause negative health effects and what to do if they are affected. At Canlas Law Group, we can educate you on silicosis and toxic exposure claims in Orange County.
What Is Silicosis?
Silicosis is a disease of the lung caused by breathing in silica dust. Silica is a compound found in many materials such as glass, sand, natural stone, engineered stone, and concrete, among others.
Silicosis can lead to coughing, inflammation and scarring in the lungs, and breathing issues that can potentially last for years. Lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and autoimmune diseases can also result from silica exposure. This illness does not currently have a cure and can cause significant physical, financial, and emotional strain.
Workers in industries such as construction, mining, and stonework are far more at risk of chronic silica exposure, especially if they manufacture natural or engineered stone countertops. In 2025, over 200 silicosis cases that resulted from working with engineered stone were confirmed in California.
Overall, silica is responsible for more than 90% of all pneumoconiosis cases in the world, which is a lung disease categorized by decreased lung capacity and efficiency.
What Are Some Other Toxic Materials That Can Result in Long-Term Injury or Illness?
Silica dust is not the only toxic material capable of causing long-term illness or injury. Another famous chemical hazard is asbestos. Asbestos is a natural substance, made of very fine fibers, that is commonly found in older building materials.
Breathing in asbestos fibers can lead to long-term lung damage, inflammation, breathing problems, and a particular lung cancer called mesothelioma. Disease usually takes many years, even decades, to develop after asbestos exposure.
Another notable hazardous material is lead. Lead is a natural element that can be found in many natural and manmade materials. Some notable ones are paint, pipes, and plastics. As a person is exposed to lead, it builds up in the body, stored in bones and organs.
Over time, as the lead reaches toxic levels, it causes problems like cognitive decline, kidney disease, and heart disease. Painters, plumbers, and ceramics workers are some professionals at risk for lead exposure.
How to Pursue Workers’ Compensation for Silicosis in Orange County
If you have developed silicosis after working in an industry in which you are exposed to silica dust, you most likely have grounds to file a workers’ compensation claim under your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. In order for an injury or illness to be covered, the following statements must be true:
- The injury or illness must occur or develop during work hours on the employer’s property or at a location the employee is required to be for work.
- The injury or illness must develop or occur during the course of work or work-related activities.
- The injury or illness must be directly caused by work activities.
To pursue workers’ compensation benefits for silicosis or other toxic exposure-related diseases, you should file a claim with your employer’s workers’ compensation insurance. After you file your claim, your employer will probably request that you be evaluated by their approved physician to develop a treatment plan. They should then cover the costs of your medical care.
Silicosis presents a unique workers’ compensation situation because the disease develops over time. However, the presence of the disease and confirmed exposure to silica combine to retroactively prove that the above three statements are true. If your workers’ compensation claim is denied for any reason, our legal team can work with you to successfully appeal this decision.
FAQs About Orange County, CA Silicosis and Toxic Exposure Claims
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Silicosis Lawyer in Downey?
The cost of a silicosis lawyer in Downey varies widely according to the complexity of your case and the hourly rates and fees set by individual lawyers. However, the majority of lawyers who work on workers’ compensation cases, including those involving silicosis, do so on a contingency basis. This means that they do not require an up-front fee for their services, instead receiving a percentage of any settlement they secure.
Can I Also File a Personal Injury Claim Against My Employer?
Usually, you cannot file a personal injury claim against your employer if you have an injury or illness for which you can collect workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation requires employees to waive that right. There are some rare exceptions to this rule, though.
If the employer intentionally created unsafe situations for their own benefit (for example, using lead-based paint because it was less expensive), you may be able to file a claim. Additionally, personal injury claims are often an option if the employer fails to carry insurance.
How Long Does It Take to Settle a Silicosis or Toxic Exposure Claim?
The length of time it takes to settle a silicosis or toxic exposure claim varies widely from case to case and depends on factors like the amount of compensation in question, the cooperativeness of your employer, your ability to document your exposure and illness, and whether your initial claim is denied. Cases may take a few months or a few years. Your lawyer can provide you with an educated opinion regarding the probable length of your case.
Can I Get Disability Coverage for Silicosis or Another Toxic Exposure Disease?
Yes, it is generally possible to get disability coverage due to silicosis or another toxic exposure disease. Workers’ compensation insurance policies typically have coverage for partial or total disability resulting from workplace injuries. If, for whatever reason, you are unable to get disability coverage through workers’ compensation, you may be able to claim Social Security disability benefits.
Need Legal Representation? Hire a Silicosis Lawyer in Orange County
If you need legal assistance pursuing compensation related to silicosis or another illness caused by workplace exposure to hazardous materials, contact an attorney with a deep understanding of workers’ compensation laws. Contact Canlas Law Group today. We are a client-focused firm that you can put your full confidence in when it comes to filing a successful claim the first time around. Our office is located at 18000 Studebaker Road in Cerritos.
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