We know how to prevent black lung, so why are workers still dying?
Sufferers of black lung and silicosis are getting younger as Trump and the coal mining industry push back on protections
TL;DR
- Silicosis, an old workplace hazard, is seeing a resurgence with workers, including coal miners and countertop fabricators, developing and dying from the disease at younger ages.
- Industry groups like the National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association (NSSGA) and American Exploration & Mining Association (AEMA) are challenging new regulations aimed at reducing silica dust exposure for miners and countertop workers.
- Public health experts argue that current regulations are insufficient and that some products, like engineered stone countertops, cannot be manufactured in a way that is both economical and safe.
- While some propose banning high-silica products, a congressional subcommittee discussed protecting stone slab manufacturers from litigation, with a proposed bill to ban lawsuits against them.
- New studies indicate a growing number of coal and countertop workers are becoming sick and dying from silica exposure, with one study finding one in three coal miners in central Appalachia have black lung disease.
- Silicosis is preventable, but regulatory action is slow, with industry groups often using tactics to cast doubt on research supporting stricter regulations.