NIOSH states that rock drilling can generate hazardous dust containing crystalline silica and that inhalation can lead to silicosis; it also links crystalline-silica exposure to lung cancer, kidney disease, reduced lung function, and other disorders. NIOSH reports acute and accelerated silicosis in rock drillers and recommends wet or dry engineering controls, enclosed cabs, maintenance, air monitoring, and respiratory protection as appropriate.
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Health effects and engineering controls · 2
Health effects and engineering controls · 2
Breathing dust that contains crystalline silica can lead to the development of silicosis, a deadly lung disease. ... Exposure to crystalline silica has also been linked to lung cancer, kidney disease, reduced lung function, and other disorders. Acute and accelerated cases of silicosis have been reported in rock drillers.