PNEUMOCONIOSIS Lung diseases resulting from the inhalation of dust

SILICOSIS l A lung disease seen in industry in which individuals are exposed to quartz/rock dust. l An old disease even found in mummies. l Primarily seen in individuals who work in rock quarries, slate quarries, and other industries where quartz dust is present in respirable size.

SILICOSIS IS CAUSED BY: l The inhalation of free silica (silica dioxide) crystals. l Blood cells attack and digest the silica dioxide which in turn develops silicic acid. l The acid in turn kills the blood cells which also release chemicals which damages the lungs and leads to fibrosis.

FIBROSIS l Damaged lung tissue with eventual formation of fibers. l Usually named after the associated dust type: l Crystalline silica - Silicosis l Asbestos - Asbestosis l Coal - Coal miners pneumoconiosis

CHARACTERISTICS l Shortness of breath following physical exertion. l Severe cough l Fatigue l Loss of appetite l Chest pains l Fever

SMOKING AND SILICOSIS l Smoking cigarettes complicates all the pneumoconiosis diseases. l Smokers who work around asbestos have a higher risk of lung cancer. l Symptoms of silicosis are very similar to lung cancer and emphysema.

IMPORTANT CHANGE l On October 22, 1996 the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) reclassified crystalline silica as a Class 1 carcinogen or considered to be a human carcinogen. l Formerly a Class 2 carcinogen or probable human carcinogen.

NORMAL BODY DEFENSES l Mucous and hair in respiratory lining catch many particles of dust. l Smoking complicates this. l Coughing expels dust particles. l The smaller particles go deepest into the lungs.

PRECAUTIONS l Engineering Controls : l Water baths l Ventilation l Enclosed cabs l Industrial Hygiene Monitoring l Wearing of PPE