California has enacted Senate Bill 20 to address the growing health risks associated with occupational exposure to crystalline silica in the artificial stone fabrication industry. The bill responds to an increase in silicosis cases among workers who perform high-exposure tasks such as cutting, grinding, and polishing engineered stone materials. Silicosis is a serious and potentially fatal lung disease caused by inhaling respirable crystalline silica dust, and the legislation introduces comprehensive amendments to the state’s Labor Code to strengthen worker protections, improve safety standards, and enhance enforcement mechanisms.
The law expands the definition of “serious injury or illness” under the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to include silicosis and silica-related lung cancer, increasing accountability and penalties for violations. It prohibits the use of dry methods during high-exposure tasks and requires employers to implement effective wet methods to suppress silica dust.
Beginning July 1, 2026, fabrication shop owners must ensure that employees performing these tasks receive proper training and must submit annual attestations to the Division of Occupational Safety and Health (DOSH) confirming compliance. Employers who violate these requirements may face citations, orders prohibiting continued work, and civil penalties.
The State Department of Public Health (CDPH) is required to treat silicosis as a serious illness and report cases to DOSH within three days. DOSH must investigate these cases, notify CDPH of findings within five days, and share exposure assessment results within 30 days. CDPH is also tasked with identifying businesses conducting high-exposure activities, providing outreach and education, and supporting local health jurisdictions with technical assistance for silicosis prevention and surveillance.