In light of growing concerns about the rise of silicosis among California’s workforce, Insurance Commissioner Ricardo Lara has requested the Workers’ Compensation Insurance Rating Bureau (WCIRB) to conduct an in-depth study and gather data on silicosis claims over the past decade.
The initiative is aimed at a better understanding of the ramifications of the occupational disease to ensure that impacted workers receive their rightful benefits.
Silicosis, an irreversible lung disease caused by inhaling crystalline silica dust, has become a significant health risk, especially among workers handling engineered stone countertops.
In his letter to the WCIRB, Lara emphasized the critical need to tackle the issue and detailed the specific data being requested. He requested information on the number of silicosis cases reported in the last decade, the average age of the individuals filing claims, and the acceptance and denial rates of these claims.
Additionally, he sought details on the average costs related to medical care, temporary disability, and permanent disability for these claims, the average expenses allocated for loss adjustment, and the average number of insurers involved with each claim.
“There is a growing concern that cases of this devastating illness are increasing, yet these workers may face challenges in obtaining the workers’ compensation benefits to which they are entitled,” the insurance commissioner wrote.
“I believe we need to understand the scope and impact of these cases further in order to ensure we are effectively safeguarding the interests of these hardworking individuals.
Lara also noted in the letter: “I have full confidence that the WCIRB will gather the best data and information possible to further assist my department in better understanding the scope of this grave issue as decisions are further contemplated to help these workers affected by this disease.”
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