May 2 2012
Silica Dust: A Human Carcinogen
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), silicosis is the most common occupational lung disease worldwide and claims the lives of thousands annually. Occupations that entail risk include ceramic and glass manufacturing, construction work and quarrying. Activities common to these occcupations include sandblasting and drilling, which creates large amounts of dust that put unprotected workers at risk. Safety gear such as a high-filtration dust mask, protective goggles and gloves minimise the risk of silicosis and other occupational illnesses and injuries.
Potter’s Rot Damages Lung Tissue
Silicosis, also known as Potter’s rot, usually develops years after exposure to silica dust. It is characterised by shortness of breath and causes fibrosis of lung tissue. Silicosis sufferers are at greater risk of developing lung cancer and the combination of silicosis and tuberculosis significantly increases the mortality rate. Unlike some conditions that improve when the cause is removed from the environment, silicosis progressively worsens even when there is no further exposure to silica dust.
In developing countries where safety gear is either not mandatory or strictly enforced, dust generation is not controlled effectively and the condition still affects many workers in occupations that expose them to silica dust.
How Does a Dust Mask Work to Keep You Safe?
A quality dust mask should meet several criteria, such as comfort and most importantly, the safety factor. Between passive paper masks and motor-powered options that incorporate an innovative breath-responsive technology, the latter is favourable for its comfort and greater efficacy. Comfort is a priority when it comes to compliance with safety regulations.
The motor in the dust mask is intended to remove exhaled carbon dioxide for user comfort by creating positive pressure in the mask. This means the safety mask does not have to be fit snugly around your nose and mouth, making it user-friendly and easy to wear.