Professions Susceptible To Silicosis

Which Professions Are Susceptible To Silicosis?

In essence, anyone who works in an industry where Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS) is present can be at risk of developing Silicosis if suitable protection measures are not put into place.

Specific industries where the risk is particularly high include:

• Construction
• Demolition
• Quarrying
• Pottery
• Glass manufacture
• Ceramics manufacture
• Computer chip manufacture
• Steel industry work
• Tunnelling
• Brick and tile manufacture
• Agriculture and horticulture
• Foundries
• Refractory production and cutting
• Concrete product manufacture
• Monumental and architectural stone-masonry
• Sandblasting
• Food production (Silica flour is commonly used in food production as an anti-caking agent and also to absorb water within powdered ingredients – it is not dangerous to ingest, but only to inhale)

This list does not cover all of the occupations that could lead to the kind of exposure that may cause Silicosis. If your occupation is not listed here it does not mean that you are unable to claim. Please contact us today to discuss your individual situation.

Within these industries there are a range of activities that can potentially create large amounts of dust containing RCS such as:

• Chiselling, drilling and cutting
• Grinding and sanding
• Polishing and fettling
• Mixing, handling or even shovelling dry materials
• Conveying materials, whether on a belt or in vehicles
• Breaking, crushing and screening rocks

Any activity that causes the tiny particles to become airborne carries an increased risk for anyone nearby to inhale them, so providing suitable protection is crucial in the fight against Silicosis.

In addition to the activities above, there are further dangers presented when:

• Clothing and surfaces can become contaminated with the RCS
• Leaks and spillages can lead to a build-up of dust containing RCS
• Dust containing RCS can be cleaned up inappropriately; for example dry-sweeping when wet cleaning would be safer
• Dust containing high levels of RCS can be disturbed or moved by vehicles and people
• The dust can remain in the air as a result of these activities.

If suitable protection and procedures are put in place then the risk of any employee developing Silicosis or other lung disorders can be minimised.

Call us now on 0800 999 1875 or click here to start your claim.