Florenza Marble & Granite Corp., a Chicago countertop manufacturer, faces approximately $1 million in fines after federal inspectors discovered severe violations of worker safety regulations, particularly regarding silica dust exposure. The U.S. Department of Labor reported that two employees suffer from incurable lung diseases linked to silica dust, with one requiring a double lung transplant and another awaiting a similar procedure. OSHA's inspection revealed workers were exposed to silica levels up to six times higher than permissible limits, with inadequate safety measures in place, including improper use of respirators. Owner Brad Karp failed to implement a necessary safety program, even after two insurance companies dropped coverage due to the company's egregious safety violations. The findings reflect a broader concern for worker health, as silicosis significantly reduces life expectancy. The company declined to comment on the allegations.