Long-term exposure to silica can be an assault on one's lungs. Silica is the basic component of rocks, sand, and soil. People who are constantly exposed to silica dust such as construction workers, miners, quarry workers, etc. are at risk of this exposure. The dust gets accumulated inside the lung and causes long-standing inflammation.
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While sanding grout, I got exposed to silica dust. Do I have to worry about silicosis?
Query: Hello doctor, I have a question about silica dust exposure. I have been working on a fireplace, and the surrounding had a lot of dried grout. I was sanding the grout with a metal brush. I used an N95 dust mask for protection. However, I have not realized that the grout contained silica which is very... Read Full »
Answer: Hi, Welcome to icliniq.com. I read your query and can understand your concern. Only with long exposure, maybe about ten years, does the risk of silicosis increase. Even with a mask, there is exposure. Advise family members to maintain a distance of 500 meters. Since it is your occupation, periodi... Read Full »