Crystalline Silica
Crystalline silica has been recognised for many years as a cause of respiratory diseases, such as silicosis.
More recently, an association between silicosis and lung cancer has been reported.
In 1996, the International Agency for Research on Cancer determined that crystalline silica is carcinogenic to humans, based on epidemiological, animal experimental and other biological data.
FEATURES
Environmental Health Solutions (EHS) employ experienced, qualified occupational hygienists who can perform atmospheric monitoring of workplace sites for the presence of respirable airborne crystalline silica.
Operations where crystalline silica monitoring should be considered include:
- Mining & quarrying
- Pottery and ceramics production
- Construction, demolition and excavation
- Refractory brick production
- Foundry operations
- Mineral processing
- Underground tunneling
- Racing Industry – sand based racing tracks
EHS occupational hygienists can assess the monitoring results and recommend engineering, personal protective and/or other appropriate controls that may be required to ensure exposure of persons in the workplace to crystalline silica are satisfactorily controlled.
