Bloomberg's Big Take Podcast Spotlights Growing Artificial Stone Silicosis Crisis

NOVATO, Calif., Sept. 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Brayton Purcell LLP is highlighting a recent episode of Bloomberg's Big Take podcast, "Crafting America's Favorite Countertops Is Killing Workers," that brings national attention to the growing artificial stone silicosis crisis affecting artificial stone countertop fabrication workers across the United States.

The episode examines the fatal health risks associated with fabricating artificial stone countertops, a product that has become one of the nation's most popular countertop materials. Through the story of former countertop fabricator Tyler Jordan, Bloomberg explores the devastating impact of artificial stone silicosis, the litigation filed by affected artificial stone fabrication workers, and the ongoing debate regarding responsibility within the industry.

Artificial stone is at least 90% respirable crystalline silica, and the remaining approximately 10% consists of highly toxic dyes, resins, glues, and heavy metals. During fabrication activities such as cutting, grinding, polishing, and shaping slabs, enormous quantities of nano-sized, high-surface area toxic artificial stone dust is released into the air.

When inhaled, these particles penetrate deep into the lungs and become embedded in lung tissue. The resulting inflammation and scarring leads to artificial stone silicosis, a devastating, progressive, incurable, and fatal disease. Unlike many occupational diseases, artificial stone silicosis continues to progress long after exposure has ended.

According to Bloomberg labor reporter Josh Eidelson, artificial stone contains significantly higher levels of crystalline silica than natural stone products. During the podcast, he noted that artificial stone can contain approximately 93% crystalline silica, compared with substantially lower amounts in materials such as marble.

The Bloomberg episode focuses heavily on the experience of Tyler Jordan, who began working in his family's countertop fabrication business after graduating from high school. As artificial stone became an increasingly large part of the shop's work, he spent much of his time fabricating artificial stone slabs.

Jordan recalled that he was told artificial stone was stronger, less porous, and more resistant to staining than natural stone. However, according to the podcast, he and other workers were not warned that artificial stone presented significantly different health risks.

While still in his twenties, Jordan began experiencing severe health problems, including unexplained weight loss, chest pain, back pain, and other symptoms. Following extensive medical testing and a lung biopsy, he was diagnosed with artificial stone silicosis.

The consequences extended beyond lung disease. Jordan later developed autoimmune disease and kidney failure and ultimately received a kidney transplant from his father. His illness forced him to leave the industry and relocate his family.

His story reflects a troubling trend documented by physicians and researchers around the world. While silicosis has existed for centuries, countertop workers who fabricate artificial stone are increasingly being diagnosed at younger ages and experience more severe and rapidly progressing disease than has historically been associated with silica exposure.

Bloomberg reported that thousands of cases of artificial stone silicosis have been identified worldwide. In the United States, workers in their twenties, thirties, and forties have been diagnosed with artificial stone silicosis, raising concerns among physicians, researchers, and public health professionals.

The podcast also examines litigation brought by workers who allege that exposure to silica released during artificial stone fabrication caused artificial stone silicosis and other serious illnesses. Approximately 700 workers throughout the United States have filed lawsuits against companies involved in manufacturing and distribution of artificial stone slabs. Workers allege that artificial stone is an extraordinarily hazardous product, and that the risks associated with artificial stone fabrication were not adequately disclosed. Defendants have denied wrongdoing and continue to maintain that artificial stone can be fabricated safely.

At the same time, policymakers continue to debate how best to respond to the growing crisis. Proposed responses discussed during the podcast range from restrictions on artificial stone fabrication to legislation that would affect certain claims involving manufacturers.

"Bloomberg's reporting highlights the profound impact artificial stone silicosis can have on workers and their families. Many of the individuals being diagnosed are experiencing debilitating lung disease and serious complications at an age when they should be building careers and raising families. As awareness of this occupational disease continues to grow, it is important for affected workers to understand their legal rights and the options that may be available to them," said James Nevin, Partner at Brayton Purcell LLP.

The Bloomberg episode emphasizes that artificial stone silicosis affects far more than a worker's lungs. Careers are cut short, families face financial hardship, and workers confront serious medical complications that affect multiple organ systems and lead to premature death.

To listen to the podcast, visit the Big Take Spotify page.

About Brayton Purcell LLP

Brayton Purcell LLP has devoted decades to representing workers and families affected by occupational diseases and toxic exposures. The firm's accomplished attorneys have extensive experience involving artificial stone silica exposure, occupational lung disease claims, and other complex toxic exposure matters.

For additional information, visit www.braytonlaw.com.

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