The Dangers of Silica Dust
Even though dealing with silica produces dust that harms human health, drilling, grinding, and cutting activities are unavoidable.
Silica is a key element in bricks, concrete, paint, and tiles and is also one of the most abundant minerals on the planet. Although many industries use it due to its chemical inertness, durability, and resistance against weathering, silica is a significant occupational hazard when inhaled as silica dust. Read on to find out the dangers of silica dust. For more detailed information, visit ConsumerNotice Silica Dust guides at Consumer Notice on Silica Dust and Silicosis Lawsuits.
Understanding silica dust
As a naturally occurring mineral, silica is present mainly as silicon dioxide in sandstone, rocks, and clay. When drilling, polishing, grinding, and cutting these materials, tiny particles called silica dust or respirable crystalline silica escape into the air.
Silica dust grains are smaller than other dust particles and too fine to see with ordinary light. When inhaled, this dust settles deep into the lungs and is likely a cause of respiratory problems.
Silica dust-related diseases
Here are some diseases that result from breathing silica dust.
Lung cancer
When deposited in the lung, silica dust generates reactive molecules. These molecules destroy the genetic (DNA) makeup of lung cells. As a result, these cells undergo abnormal multiplication, which causes the growth of tumors. Worse still, the immune system becomes so weak that it can’t recognize or kill these cells.
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Respirable crystalline silica causes scarring and inflammation in the lungs, which then lose elasticity, making breathing harder. In addition, deposited silica dust causes narrowing of the airways. These factors lead to a disorder called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The condition causes painful and prolonged coughing, acute breathlessness, disability, and, in worse cases, death.
Silicosis
Silicosis is one of the deadly diseases caused by silica dust. It is a progressive lung disease that causes scarring and inflammation in the early stages. With continued exposure, the scarring becomes pronounced, leading to chest pain, difficulties in breathing, and coughing.
In the final stage, the lung structure is deformed, causing respiratory system failure and a high risk of death.
Ways to minimize exposure to silica dust
Even though dealing with silica produces dust that harms human health, drilling, grinding, and cutting activities are unavoidable. The best approach is to minimize the risk of exposure to breathable crystalline silica as follows:
Wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as respirators to cover the mouth and nose and help filter the air.
Install local exhaust ventilation (LEV), which suppresses silica dust by absorbing it at its origin to prevent air contamination.
Wash work clothes and gear separately to prevent the spread of fine silica dust and secondary exposure.
Preventing the risks of silica dust
Although silica is useful in most industries, silica dust is a known hazard that poses health issues that could prove fatal in some cases. As such, taking all necessary measures to minimize exposure is critical.
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