Silicosis is a devastating — and preventable — occupational disease that is caused by prolonged exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust. Despite advancements in workplace safety, workers in certain industries take their lives in their hands every day as they risk exposure. So, what types of jobs are most at risk for silicosis?
Before we can jump right into the jobs most susceptible to silicosis, first we should probably talk about what silicosis is.
Silicosis is a lung disease that occurs when fine silica particles are inhaled. Over time, these particles settle in the lungs, causing inflammation, scarring, and reduced lung function. The disease can range from mild to severe, and once it takes hold, it is irreversible.
Crystalline silica — a fine dust — is found in natural materials like quartz, sand, and stone. In fabricated material, like engineered stone, crystalline silica is found in much higher quantities. This means that activities like cutting, grinding, or drilling these materials release fine silica particles into the air — ripe for breathing into their lungs. This is why workers who are exposed to this dust — without adequate protection — are at a very high risk of developing silicosis.
Jobs Most at Risk for Silicosis
It may sound bleak, but there are steps that you can take to protect yourself. It can sometimes be easier to assume that your employer is strictly adhering to all standards set by OSHA, but in order to fully protect yourself, you need to know what those standards are. This allows you to identify opportunities in the workplace and take action to protect yourself.
A: While silicosis typically develops from prolonged exposure, acute silicosis can occur after intense exposure to high levels of silica dust over a very short period of time. This rapid form of the disease progresses quickly and can cause severe lung damage within months. If you suspect that you have been exposed to crystalline silica dust, it is imperative that you immediately see a pulmonologist.
A: No. Respirable silica dust particles are microscopic and cannot be seen without specialized equipment. The invisible nature of silica dust makes it particularly dangerous, as workers may not even realize that they are being exposed. This is why education and safety measures are so important. If you work in any of the above-mentioned industries, you must take steps to protect yourself from harm.
A: Although silicosis primarily impacts the lungs, prolonged inflammation caused by silica dust exposure can contribute to other health issues. These can include autoimmune disorders, kidney disease, and cardiovascular complications. Early detection of silicosis can help mitigate the development of these other diseases, so ensure that you are getting regular health check-ups.
A: Secondary exposure occurs when silica dust clings to a worker’s clothing or hair. To avoid exposing their families, workers should decontaminate — shower, and change — before coming home. If showering is not possible, workers should at least change their clothes, then disrobe immediately upon entering the home and shower immediately. Separately washing work clothes is also advised.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with silicosis, you may need to consider pursuing options that can hold the responsible parties accountable. The office of Wallace & Graham, P.A., has decades of experience in toxic exposure litigation and has worked to recover millions of dollars for their clients over the years.
You don’t have to face this battle alone. We can help you to understand your rights and develop a strategy to address all of your concerns.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
Notifications