Masonry Magazine July 2001 Page. 24
SILICOSIS
When workers inhale crystalline silica, lung tissues react by developing fibrotic nodules and scarring around the trapped silica particles. This fibrotic condition of the lung is called silicosis. If the nodules grow too large, breathing becomes difficult and death can result.¹
SILICOSIS
# Respiratory Protection
by Joe O'Connor, Intec, Inc.
There's no mystery why masonry construction receives special attention from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). High injury, illness and fatality rates in construction have caused OSHA to concentrate on the various trades in this industry. An OSHA Special Emphasis Program to address silica narrows that focus to those involved in activities where silica may be present. And finally, the release of the Respiratory Protection standard (29 Code of Federal Regulations 1926.103) in 1998 brought more attention to hazards which require the use of respirators. Masons need to be prepared by learning how to address silica and the requirements associated with respirators.
Silicosis is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by the inhalation of silica. When you inhale the air containing the dust created by these activities silica will enter the lung. Lung tissue reacts forming fibrotic nodules or lumps and scar tissue. This condition is called silicosis. If the nodules grow too large, breathing becomes difficult and death may occur.
Three types of silicosis may develop based on the level of exposure. Chronic Silicosis occurs after a 10-year period at low concentrations of silica. Accelerated Silicosis develops after 5-10 years at high concentrations. Acute Silicosis can occur in a few weeks to 5 years if exposure to very high concentrations of silica occur.
The condition of silicosis is complicated. Initially you may experience no symptoms. As it progresses, breathing may become difficult. You may develop a cough. Other chest symptoms or lung infections may occur. Approximately half of all silicosis victims get tuberculosis.
Silica, the cause of silicosis, is common in the masonry industry. It is the most common mineral found in the