Page 47 - HIL Operatives Training Manual V4 16022024_Neat

O P E R A T I V E S T R A I N I N G M A N U A L V E R S I O N 4

12 Respirable Silica Dust

Crystalline silica is a natural component of stone, soil, and sand. It is also found in other
materials such as concrete, mortar, granite, and artificial stone. The most common form of
crystalline silica is quartz. If you work around these products, you could be exposed. Cutting,
drilling, chipping, sanding, or grinding materials that contain crystalline silica can release
hazardous levels of respirable dust in the air that workers breathe.

To prevent exposures, control dust by following safe work practices and using engineering
controls (strategies used to modify equipment or a process to protect workers from hazards).

12.1 Engineering Controls

• Use wet methods that apply water at the impact site where dust is generated.
• Remove silica dust using local exhaust ventilation at the point where dust is
made.
• Use enclosures when available to isolate the work process.
• Consider using a combination of both water and ventilation controls.
• Ensure that all engineering controls are working properly prior to use and replace
water and air filters as necessary to control dust.
• Avoid dry sweeping or using compressed air during regular and thorough
housekeeping procedures.
• Use respiratory protection when dust controls and safe work practices cannot limit
silica exposures below the Workplace Exposure Limit (WEL).
• Participate in a medical monitoring program when an employer has shown
crystalline silica levels are above occupational exposure limits.

12.2 Health Risks of Exposure

An x-ray of a lung with silicosis and
progressive massive fibrosis (PMF).
Breathing in dust from silica-containing materials can lead
to silicosis. Silica dust particles become trapped in lung
tissue causing inflammation and scarring. The particles
also reduce the lungs’ ability to take in oxygen. This
condition is called silicosis. Silicosis results in permanent
lung damage and is a progressive, debilitating, and
sometimes fatal disease.

Chronic silicosis typically occurs after 10 or more years of
exposure to respirable crystalline silica. However, the
disease can occur much more quickly after heavy
exposures. Silicosis can develop or progress even after
workplace exposures have stopped.

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