SILICOSIS
Silicosis is an age old lung disease caused by inhalation of dust containing free crystalline silica. The disease is incurable and the person’s condition will continue to degenerate after exposure has ceased.
Free Crystalline Silica, SiO2, is one of the most common minerals in the Earths crust. Found in materials such as granite, sandstone, slate and sand the processing of these materials is potentially harmful. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies it as a group 1 human lung carcinogen.
Low exposure to free crystalline silica can cause eye, nose and throat irritation. Prolonged and repeated exposure leads to scarring of the lungs (silicosis) and death can occur within 10 years of initial exposure. The NSW Work Cover Authority says that exposure to extremely high concentrations over a period as little as a few months can lead to acute silicosis. This is a rare form of the disease and may lead to death in 2-3 years.
The CMPA is currently investigating this issue and its relevance to CMPA members. Results obtained will be presented at the November 29 General Meeting with further action being taken as required after the event.
Free Crystalline Silica, SiO2, is one of the most common minerals in the Earths crust. It is found in materials such as granite, sandstone, slate and sand.
South Australian Mining and Quarrying Occupational Health and Safety Committee project officer, Jane Liggins said that no cases of silicosis have been reported in South Australia for six years.
Due to the latency of the disease operators should not use this as a safeguard, but ensure that the necessary precautions are taken to reduce exposure.
A recent study initiated in NSW aims to establish if dusts produced in quarries do in fact cause silicosis. The Department of Natural Resources and Environment is currently collecting silica exposure information in Victorian Quarries. This confidential database will be used to analyse exposure levels and trends. Members are requested to support the Department in its efforts to establish the significance of this disease in Victorian Quarries.
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