Harmful effects of silica

Crystalline silica is harmful when respirable-sized dust of less than 10 microns is breathed deep into the lungs, as this can cause lung scarring known as silicosis. The lungs become less flexible, making it difficult to breathe and do hard work.

Silicosis can be classed into:

• chronic (or classic) silicosis, typically observed in workers following ten years or more exposure

• accelerated silicosis, appearing in workers after high exposure over a shorter period (one to ten years)

• acute silicosis, observed in workers usually less than one year after exposure to silica at very high concentrations. Acute silicosis can cause very serious health effects and is life threatening.

Significant long-term exposure to Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS) has also been associated with an increased risk of developing lung cancer.

There is evidence that fresh cut silica particles, with active surfaces, may be more harmful than aged surface modified (less active) particles.

Silicosis can kill, but exposure to silica dust is preventable. Particles are most often generated in workplaces where materials are cut, sanded, grinded or drilled, creating fine dust.

You can help protect yourself and others by watching and sharing this video prepared by SafeWork NSW.