Refractory Worker Entitled to Silicosis Benefits Two Years After Retirement

HARRISBURG, Pa. - A former refractory worker who voluntarily retired and collected a pension, then two years later was found to be disabled from silicosis, is also entitled to workers' compensation benefits for his disability, a state appeals court has held. Premiere Refractories, et al. v. Workers' Compensation Appeal Board, No. 2330 CD 2002 (Pa. Cmwlth Ct.).

The Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania on July 18 affirmed the benefits awarded to William Bucha, determining that the claimant's testimony indicates that he was forced to retire because of his condition.

Bucha worked at J.H. France Refractories for 45 years until he retired …