Abstract

This study provides a discussion of silica, the evolution of crystalline silica dust exposure concerns, an overview of the various uses of crystalline silica in the workplace, a summary of the various governmental regulations and standards that currently govern crystalline silica in the workplace and the IARC evaluation process for classification of silica, a discussion of how the presence of crystalline silica is currently determined and measured in the workplace, as well as of what can be done to protect workers from exposure to this hazardous material. Additionally, the various health risks resulting from crystalline silica exposure are discussed, including the relationship between crystalline silica exposure and the incidence of silicosis, cancer and various autoimmune disorders. Finally, the specific dangers of exposure in the construction industry and among heavy-equipment operators are explored, and the growing body of legal actions resulting from crystalline silica exposure is discussed. Contents: Introduction Problem Statement Purpose of Study Importance of Study Scope of Study Rationale of Study Definition of Terms Overview of Study Review of Literature History of Crystalline Silica Exposure Use of Crystalline Silica Measurement of Cystalline Silica Determining the Presence of Silicia in the Workplace Measuring Workplace Exposure to Cyristalline Silica Protection Against Crystalline Silica Silicosis Resulting from Crystalline Silica The IARC Evalutation Process IARC Classification of Silica Amended IARC Evaluation of Silica as a Carcinogen Crystalline Silica and Autoimmune Diseases Exposure to Silica in Construction Exposure to Silica Among Heavy Equipment Expusure to Silica in Sandblasters Legal Actions Death in the Workplace Regulation OSHA's Hazard Standard Relevant OSHA Regulations Methodology Approach Data Gathering Database of Study Validity of the Data Originality & Limitations of the Data

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