A Chicago countertop manufacturer faces more than $1M in penalties after inspectors found it failed to implement proper safety protocols to prevent harmful exposure to silica dust. Three employees of Florenza Marble and Granite Corp. now live with serious work-related lung disease, and Leonard Law Group represents all three as they seek accountability.
OSHA Investigation
The investigation by OSHA reported employees laboring in a "haze of dust" and workers using required respirators incorrectly. OSHA's investigation also concluded that the company had few controls in place to reduce silica exposure as employees cut and engineered stone countertops.
OSHA Regional Administrator Bill Donovan said that inspectors found silica dust levels nearly six times higher than permitted levels, and the owner ignored all efforts to protect his employees from exposure. Furthermore, it was later revealed that two workers’ compensation insurance carriers refused to insure the business in 2022 and 2024 because the company failed to provide air samples or proof that workers were being protected.
Lasting Harm to Workers
For these employees, the consequences have been life-altering. Two workers required double-lung transplants, and the third worker has been treated for unresolved work-related lung disease for more than three years.
Seeking Justice
Leonard Law Group represents the three employees as they seek justice from the owner and manufacturer. Partner Joseph P. Brancky is leading the firm's work on the case, taking an aggressive yet meticulous approach to pursue the reparations these workers deserve.
No outcome can undo the harm these workers have suffered. Leonard Law Group will continue fighting to hold those responsible accountable and to help secure access to treatment.
Case Summary
Case Type: Occupational Disease
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Representation: Leonard Law Group
