Silica
The Cornell University Crystalline Silica Program establishes requirements and procedures to protect employees from occupational exposure to respirable crystalline silica. This program outlines the required control methods and/or air monitoring requirements to comply with OSHA CFR 1926.1153.
Examples of materials that may contain silica include but are not limited to;
- Cement
- Mortar
- Concrete
- Brick
- Drywall
- Plaster
- Tile
When these materials are used, it has a potential to produce crystalline silica dust. Some different processes that are dust producing include but are not limited to:
- Cutting/Sawing
- Chipping
- Drilling/Corning
- Grinding
- Milling
- Polishing
- Sanding
Crystalline silica exposure occurs through the inhalation of respirable crystalline silica dust. The dust deposits into the lungs and over time can lead to serious health issues such as Silicosis, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and other linked cancers.