Silicosis and Crystalline Silica Exposure

Silicosis is a preventable occupational lung disease caused by the inhalation of respirable crystalline silica dust. Crystalline silica is a ubiquitous compound found in soil, sand, granite, and other minerals. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that approximately 1.7 million U.S. workers are exposed to crystalline silica-containing dust.

Workers in industries such as mining, construction, abrasive blasting, and manufacturing are at risk for occupational exposure to silica dust. Miners, for example, may be exposed to silica-containing dust through rock drilling, crushing, and loading. In addition, construction workers may be at risk for exposure to respirable silica-containing dust through the use of concrete and masonry products, which are known to be composed of both silica sand as well as rock containing silica.

Silicosis, Silica Exposure & Prevention Advice

The following materials have been developed to provide information about silicosis, the risks of silica exposure, and prevention advice.

  • Resources & Materials

    A list of background materials and general resources, as well as resources specific for providers, miners, and mine operators concerning silicosis and silica dust exposure.

  • What Physicians Need to Know

    A fact sheet intended to increase provider awareness concerning occupational silicosis and crystalline silica exposure. This fact sheet includes clinical information, prevention recommendations, and consultation options to help providers attend to and serve the healthcare needs of their patients.

  • Information for Mine Workers

    A fact sheet intended to increase miner awareness concerning occupational silicosis and crystalline silica exposure. This fact sheet includes background information on silica exposure, why miners may be at risk for silicosis, silica exposure prevention recommendations, and who to contact for additional information.

  • Information for Road Construction Workers

    A fact sheet intended to increase road construction worker awareness concerning occupational silicosis and crystalline silica exposure. This fact sheet includes background information on silica exposure, why road construction workers may be at risk for silicosis, silica exposure prevention recommendations, and who to contact for additional information.

Where Can I Get More Information?

  • The Mine Safety and Health Administration was developed to protect miners' safety and health. Visit their website for more information about your health, safety, and rights as a miner.
  • The New York State Occupational Health Clinic Network is a group of clinics, which specialize in occupational disease, injury, and prevention. For more information or to find a clinic located near you, visit our webpage.
  • The New York State Department of Health, Bureau of Occupational Health and Injury Prevention is committed to the prevention of workplace injuries, illnesses, and fatalities. Contact them for assistance on controlling workplace hazards at 518-402-7900.