December 14, 2005—The UK’s Health and Safety Commision (HSC) has published a consultative document seeking comments on a proposal for a new Workplace Exposure Limit
(WEL) for a commonly found dust known as crystalline silica, which can be harmful when breathed in. According to HSC research, nearly 2 million employees are exposed to this dust every year.
Crystalline silica is a naturally occurring mineral found in almost all types of rock, sands, clays, etc., and in building materials made from these substances, such as bricks, tiles, and concrete. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimates that at least 100,000 workers are exposed to dust containing respirable crystalline silica on a regular basis in a diverse range of industries including mining, quarrying, brick/tile and ceramic manufacture, construction, foundries, and stone-masonry.
Long-term exposure to dusts containing respirable crystalline silica can lead to the development of silicosis, a slowly developing irreversible lung disease. Heavy and prolonged exposures under conditions that are sufficient to cause silicosis can also lead to an increased risk of lung cancer.
The HSC’s proposal recommends a reduction from the current WEL of 0.3 mg.m-3 for respirable crystalline silica to a new WEL of 0.1 mg.m-3, which evidence suggests would considerably reduce the risk of workers developing silicosis.
If approved, the new exposure limit will take effect in 2006. For more information visit H/a>.
