Respirable crystalline silica is an abundant natural material found in concrete, stone, sand, granite, glass and other construction materials.
With such a low exposure standard limit, it is important to monitor for crystalline silica if your workplace handles some of these materials. This will be beneficial to the company to provide evidence of a compliant workplace or to highlight areas that need attention.
Monitoring will also be used to advise you on what controls are necessary, including the type of PPE that staff should wear in order to be protected.
Respirable crystalline silica is small enough to be inhaled deep into the respiratory tract and into the lungs.
This can cause:
- Lung cancer
- Scarring of the lungs, which makes them hard like cement
- Permanent breathing disabilities
- Increased risk of tuberculosis
- Increased risk of kidney disease