What is Crystalline Silica?
Silicon dioxide, that exists as a crystal, is in many different materials used across a variety of industries. Crystalline silica is found in sand, sandstone, granite and shale. It’s also found in cement, asphalt, dental supplies, brick, and other ceramics. It is regulated under OSHA General Industry standard 29 CFR 1910.1053 and employers are required to determine if employees are exposed to silica above the defined permissible exposure limit, or PEL, as defined in the standard. Silica training is required prior to work assignment.
Why is Silica dangerous?
When crystalline silica is broken down to small “respirable” particles, a person can inhale them and cause irreparable damage. Silicosis, lung cancer, COPD and even tuberculosis have been attributed to the inhalation of crystalline silica debris and dust. Silicosis has no known cure, failure to protect yourself now can have lasting consequences.
What does this mean for you?
As an employer it is up to you to make sure your employees have been trained or educated on; the health hazards of silica, tasks that result in exposure, controls and work practices to protect from exposure, use of PPE, and the purpose of the medical surveillance program. As an employee, it is your responsibility to protect yourself and others in your work area by reducing the risk as much as possible and utilizing the proper PPE.
If you want to ensure that you and your employees are properly trained for silica awareness and adhering to the new standard, call our office 877-209-9648, or email sales@pasafety.com to reach a representative about scheduling a class. We travel around the country teaching safety training courses. If you can work around our schedule, many times there isn’t much travel cost associated. Our mission is to reduce workplace accidents and injuries. Please let us know how we can help.
For More Information on Silica check out these articles:
Respirable Crystalline Silica: Regulations and Considerations
OSHA Standards
Everything You Need to Know About Crystalline Silica
1-800-LUNGUSA – Learn About Silicosis
