- Author
-
Ampian, S. G.
|
Virta, R. L.
- Title
- Crystalline Silica Overview: Occurrence and Analysis.
- Coporate
- Bureau of Mines, Washington, DC
- Report
-
IC 9317,
1992,
31 p.
- Keywords
-
silica
|
toxicology
|
x ray diffraction
- Abstract
- Crystalline silica (quarts, cristobalite, and tridymite) is regulated by the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) because of its potential for causing debilitating but nonmalignant lung diseases. In 1987, the International Agency for Research Against Cancer (IARC) conducted a review of the health literature and concluded that crystalline silica was a probable human carcinogen. As a result of this finding, OSHA was required to regulate crystalline silica under its Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). The standard requires that all materials handled by OSHA-regulated facilities be labeled according to the requirements of HCS and that workers receive proper training on the handling of the mateial if the crystalline silica content equals or exceeds 0.1 weight percent (0.1%). MSHA currently is considering enacting its own HCS. This will be similar to OSHA's HCS. If the standard is enacted, most mineral producers will have to determine the respirable monitor filter and bulk crystalline silica contents of their ores and products so that workers and/or customers will know whether they are in compliance with the 0.1% HCS and/or the OSHA permissible exposure level (PEL) of 50 microgram for an 8-hour workday for respirable crystalline silica as determined from monitor samples.