Brayton Purcell LLP is highlighting a Bloomberg Big Take podcast episode examining the artificial stone silicosis crisis among countertop fabrication workers in the United States. The episode follows former fabricator Tyler Jordan, who developed artificial stone silicosis, autoimmune disease and kidney failure before receiving a kidney transplant from his father. Artificial stone contains at least 90% respirable crystalline silica, while Bloomberg labor reporter Josh Eidelson said some products contain approximately 93% crystalline silica. Cutting, grinding, polishing and shaping slabs can release toxic dust that penetrates lung tissue, causing progressive, incurable and fatal disease. About 700 workers have sued companies involved in manufacturing and distributing artificial stone slabs, while defendants deny wrongdoing and say the material can be fabricated safely. Policymakers are considering responses ranging from fabrication restrictions to legislation affecting certain claims against manufacturers.