Silicosis Silicosis is a disabling, nonreversible and sometimes fatal lung disease caused by overexposure to respirable crystalline silica. More than one million U.S. workers are exposed to crystalline silica, and each year more than 250 die from silicosis. There is no cure for the disease, but it is 100 percent preventable if employers, workers, and health professionals work together to reduce exposures. Recognition Crystalline Silica Exposures in Construction . This article describes construction activities that involve silica exposures, including case studies and OSHA enforcement data.
Labor secretary calls for an end to Silicosis .
Preventing Silicosis . A general information sheet on silicosis disease. Describes the current regulatory status of silica, and designates silica as a priority for comprehensive rulemaking to reduce the burden of silica-related diseases. Silica Dust Exposures Can Cause Silicosis . Provides summary information regarding silicosis disease, silica exposures, and controls.