Types of Silica

Crystalline silica may be of several distinct types. Quartz, a form of silica and the most common mineral in the earth’s crust, is associated with many types of rock. Other types of silica include cristobalite and tridymite.

Potential for Exposure During Construction
view article >

CURRENT EXPOSURE LIMITS

The current Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) permissible exposure limit (PEL) for respirable dust containing crystalline silica (quartz) for the construction industry is measured by millions of particles per cubic foot (mppcf) and is calculated using the following formula view article >

SILICOSIS CASE REPORTS

Case No. 1–Sandblaster
A 39-year-old man was diagnosed with silicosis (progressive massive fibrosis) and tuberculosis in April 1993 after working 22 years as a sandblaster. He had noticed a gradual increase in shortness of breath, wheezing, and discomfort from minimal exertion. Tissue taken from his lungs showed extensive fibrosis.
view article >