SILICA IN THE WORKPLACE
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Table 1
Some Sources of Exposure to Crystalline Free Silica
hardrock mining ferrous and nonferrous metal casting
granite quarrying pottery manufacturing
aggregate quarrying porcelain manufacturing
quarrying of semi-precious stones enamelware manufacturing
abrasive products manufacturing
polishing semi-precious stones
asbestos-cement products manufacturing
abrasive blasting and grinding
refractory products manufacturing and
utilization
cement products manufacturing
brick manufacturing
cutting, grinding, drilling, polishing counter
top stones like granite, engineered stones
and marble
What are the Effects of Exposure to Respirable Crystalline Silica?
Exposure to silica can cause silicosis which is, in fact, the most significant lung disease caused by
breathing mineral dusts. Development of silicosis is influenced by several factors, which include:
Amount and kind of dust inhaled
Content of crystalline silica in the dust
Form of the silica
Relative size of the inhaled particles
Length of exposure
Individual susceptibility
Smoking habits
Disease status
Age of worker
