Silicosis affects more workers than any other respiratory disease. Silicosis has escaped national attention despite its prevalence. Harmful concentrations of dust are invisible and symptoms of silicosis are generic. According to the World Health Organization, under diagnosis and under reporting are frequent. Thousands of American workers suffer unknowingly from the disease.
Silicosis is 100% preventable. The methods of preventing silicosis are simple and have been known for centuries. While European countries banned silica in sandblasting over 50 years ago, American companies continued to make, sell and use silica sand blasting materials. Liable defendants include silica suppliers, premises owners, equipment manufacturers and respirator manufacturers.