Silica or quartz dust is very hazardous to health. Inhaling it can cause an incurable lung disease called silicosis, a silica side effect. Because silica is found in many workplaces, OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), the federal agency responsible for enforcing the Occupational Safety and Health Act, has given silica warnings and set standards for protecting workers who are exposed to silica. These guidelines set a limit on the maximum amount of silica a worker can be exposed to in an 8-hour shift.
Under these guidelines employers are required to inform workers about the dangers of silica and to make sure workers have access to adequate protection. Paper facemasks do not protect against silica inhalation. Workers exposed to silica should use tight-fitting respirators to keep the small silica particles out of their lungs. Men usually need to be clean-shaven for the respirators to fit properly. Smoking also greatly increases the risks of developing silicosis.
Other suggested safeguards include:
Check out the following articles for more information about Silica, filing a Silica lawsuit and finding a Silica attorney.