Upwards of 100,000 workers in construction and maritime settings get exposed to levels that exceed OSHA guidelines on “permissible exposure limits” (PEL). This figure applies to more than 600,000 workplaces. How Many Workers are Exposed to Crystalline Silica?Īccording to a report published by OSHA, approximately 2 million men and women in the maritime and construction trades come in contact with respirable crystalline silica annually. This lung condition reduces the amount of oxygen the body takes in and remains incurable. It typically inhibits lung activity by forming scar tissue following high or prolonged exposure. Silicosis ranks among the most dangerous and sometimes deadly diseases linked to inhaling the dust. Even a small amount of crystalline silica dust entering the lungs can reportedly cause a significant health issue. These tiny dust particles have been linked to conditions such as lung cancer and are classified as a carcinogen. It may come as a surprise to people in the construction and maritime sectors, but the sand used to remove paint from ship hulls and clear away debris on brick facades may include crystalline silica. The health hazards related to over-exposure to respirable crystalline silica are prevalent when products and materials containing crystalline silica undergo cutting, drilling, grinding, or sandblasting, among others. Sometimes identified as “Respirable Crystalline Silica,” its tiny particles have been measured 100 times smaller than common beach sand. What is Crystalline Silica?Ĭrystalline silica is a naturally occurring element in the earth’s crust that has been widely used in manufactured products and construction materials. The new rules and increased awareness about long-term effects are likely to prompt employers to tighten safety protocols and increase PPE for silica dust protection. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) enhanced its silica dust standards and requires employers to make robust efforts to limit exposure. Government agencies mandate PPE for silica dust in wide-reaching industries. Some have compared modern-day crystalline silica to asbestos.įortunately, the health hazards related to exposure to respirable crystalline silica are now well documented. These tiny dust particles continue to cause debilitating lung conditions, reduce quality of life, and kill thousands of unsuspecting workers. Crystalline silica dust ranks among the most dangerous materials today’s workers are exposed to because it seems relatively harmless and may take years to impact their health.
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