Silica Dust

What is silica dust?

Silica is a naturally occurring substance that can be found in varying amounts in rocks, sand, and clay. For instance, sandstone has over 70% silica content, while granite typically contains 15-30% silica. Additionally, construction materials like bricks, tiles, concrete, and mortar also contain silica.

During many construction tasks, such as cutting, drilling, grinding, and polishing, dust is generated from these materials. Some of this dust is so fine that it can penetrate deep into the lungs, and is called respirable crystalline silica (RCS). This fine dust is not visible under normal lighting conditions and is commonly referred to as silica or silica dust.

What are the risks to construction workers?

After asbestos, silica is considered the biggest threat to the health of construction workers. Prolonged and heavy exposure to respirable crystalline silica (RCS) can lead to serious respiratory diseases, including lung cancer. In 2005, it was estimated that silica exposure was responsible for the deaths of more than 500 construction workers, according to data commissioned by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).

Apart from lung cancer, silica exposure is also associated with other severe lung diseases. Silicosis, which can cause breathing difficulties and increases the risk of lung infections, typically develops after prolonged exposure to RCS. However, acute silicosis can occur more quickly after extremely high exposures.

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes bronchitis and emphysema, is a group of lung diseases that result in prolonged coughing, severe breathlessness, and chronic disability. It is a significant cause of death, with an estimated 4,000 deaths annually attributed to past workplace exposures, and construction workers are particularly at risk.

Despite the relatively small amounts required to cause significant harm, appropriate controls can limit the amount of silica dust inhaled during a working day. For reference, the maximum amount that should be inhaled after using appropriate controls is illustrated next to a penny in size.

How many people die from breathing in construction dust?

Inhaling construction dust on a regular basis can lead to the development of serious illnesses such as lung cancer, asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and silicosis. Construction workers are particularly vulnerable to these diseases due to the high levels of dust generated during common tasks. Unfortunately, these diseases can result in permanent disability and premature death. It is estimated that silica dust exposure causes at least 500 deaths among construction workers annually.