PNEUMOCONIOSIS

Lung diseases resulting from the inhalation of dust

SILICOSIS

A lung disease seen in industry in which individuals are exposed to quartz/rock dust.

An old disease even found in mummies.

Primarily seen in individuals who work in rock quarries, slate quarries, and other industries where quartz dust is present in respirable size.

SILICOSIS IS CAUSED BY:

The inhalation of free silica (silica dioxide) crystals.

Blood cells attack and digest the silica dioxide which in turn develops silicic acid.

The acid in turn kills the blood cells which also release chemicals which damages the lungs and leads to fibrosis.

FIBROSIS

Damaged lung tissue with eventual formation of fibers.

Usually named after the associated dust type:

Crystalline silica - Silicosis Asbestos - Asbestosis Coal - Coal miners pneumoconiosis

CHARACTERISTICS

Shortness of breath following physical exertion.

Severe cough Fatigue Loss of appetite Chest pains Fever

SMOKING AND SILICOSIS

Smoking cigarettes complicates all the pneumoconiosis diseases.

Smokers who work around asbestos have a higher risk of lung cancer.

Symptoms of silicosis are very similar to lung cancer and emphysema.

IMPORTANT CHANGE

On October 22, 1996 the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) reclassified crystalline silica as a Class 1 carcinogen or considered to be a human carcinogen.

Formerly a Class 2 carcinogen or probable human carcinogen.

NORMAL BODY DEFENSES

Mucous and hair in respiratory lining catch many particles of dust.

Smoking complicates this. Coughing expels dust particles. The smaller particles go deepest

into the lungs.

PRECAUTIONS

Engineering Controls: Water baths Ventilation Enclosed cabs Industrial Hygiene Monitoring Wearing of PPE