What is Crystalline Silica?

Crystalline Silica is a common mineral, found in quartz, sand, gravel, clay, granite and other forms of rocks.

OSHA reports that over 2 million people are exposed to silica dust at work. These particulates are released during cutting, grinding, drilling, and chipping of natural and manufactured stone products and during similar concrete work. In these environments, particles become airborne, extending the exposure area. Not only workers with direct contact but workers in close proximity become susceptible to silica dust exposure.

With only limited exposure, silica dust can cause scar tissue, and reduce the ability for your lungs to take in oxygen. Prolonged exposure can cause chronic, classic accelerated and acute forms of Silicosis, a debilitating lung disease.

Silica Dust Containment

Crystalline silica is present in demolition dust, manufacturing of counter tops, quartz, granite, aggregate added to concrete, bricks, terracotta tiles, sandstone. To assure safe work spaces and silica dust containment, negative air machines featuring HEPA air filtration are often used. Creating a negative pressure air space pulls fine dust particulates to the machine which then captures them in the HEPA air filter.

High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters remove the fine particulates in the air and create a safe environment. For workers in silica exposed industries such as concrete grinding, counter top manufacturing and counter top installation, HEPA filtration is critical.

 

To determine the best equipment for your space, visit our air flow calculator page.

 

Please visit OSHA and NIOSH for more information on silica dust containment and recommended exposure levels and guidelines.