Understanding silica

Silica dust is made by cutting, drilling, or grinding products that contain crystalline silica. If the dust particles are small enough, they can cause serious health problems.

Silica dust particles can travel deep into the lungs causing permanent damage that can lead to serious illness or death. Diseases associated with silica exposure are called ‘silica-related diseases.’

Silica is a naturally occurring mineral that is a major component of most rocks, sand and soils. Silica is used to make common building materials like bricks, pavers, concrete, artificial stone products and tiles.