Louisiana Silicosis & Engineered Stone Injury Lawyers
If you work in the stone fabrication industry—cutting, grinding, or polishing countertops—you may have been exposed to deadly levels of silica dust. This is not just “dust.” It is a toxic substance that destroys lungs.
At the Berniard Law Firm, we represent Louisiana workers who have developed Silicosis after working with engineered stone (also known as Quartz). This is an epidemic in our state, and the manufacturers knew the risks but failed to warn you.
What is Engineered Stone Silicosis?
Engineered stone (Quartz) contains up to 90% crystalline silica. Natural stone like granite only contains about 30%. When you cut this artificial stone without proper protection, the dust creates permanent scarring in your lungs.
This condition is often fatal and can require a lung transplant. It strikes young workers, often in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.
Who We Represent
Countertop Fabricators
Cutters and Grinders
Installers
Finishers and Polishers
It’s Not Your Fault—It’s The Manufacturer’s
Many workers are told to “just wear a mask.” That is often not enough. The manufacturers of these artificial stone slabs made a product that is inherently dangerous and failed to provide proper warnings or safety equipment guidelines.
We file lawsuits against the manufacturers of the stone, not just your employer. This allows us to seek compensation beyond standard Workers’ Comp limits.
Symptoms of Silicosis
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Shortness of breath (especially during exercise)
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Persistent dry cough
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Chest pain or tightness
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Fatigue and weight loss
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Scarring seen on Chest X-rays or CT Scans
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Chronic fatigue and physical weakness.
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Progressive massive fibrosis (PMF) leading to the need for a lung transplant.
Compensation You Can Recover
Medical Expenses: Past and future lung treatments, oxygen, and transplants.
Lost Wages: If you can no longer work in the trade.
Pain and Suffering: For the physical agony and shortened life expectancy.
The Rise of Engineered Stone (Quartz) Silicosis in 2025
Silicosis cases are seeing an alarming resurgence in Louisiana, specifically among workers in the quartz countertop fabrication industry. While natural stone contains some silica, engineered stone products often contain as much as 90% crystalline silica. When these slabs are cut, ground, or polished without proper wet-cutting methods or high-grade respiratory protection, workers inhale microscopic dust particles that scar lung tissue permanently.
Contact the Berniard Law Firm Today
You have limited time to file a claim. If you or a loved one worked with stone countertops and is having trouble breathing, call us immediately at (504) 521-6000. We can help you get screened and fight for your future.
We hold negligent employers and multi-billion dollar stone manufacturers like Caesarstone and Cambria accountable for their failure to warn workers of these deadly risks.
Call us today at (504) 521-6000 for a free, no-obligation consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis—you pay nothing unless we recover a settlement for you.