Stones, rocks, sands and clays can contain large amounts of crystalline silica and are used to make kerbs, flags, bricks, tiles and concrete. Cutting these materials produces airborne dust containing very fine RCS particles. These particles are small and it is not always possible to see the RCS dust in normal lighting.
Serious health effects, such as lung cancer or silicosis, can result from exposure to RCS. This is because fine RCS particles can penetrate deep into the lungs. Silica is currently the second most important cause of occupational lung cancer after asbestos.
Silica causes a stiffening and scarring of the lungs called silicosis. This condition can make the affected person so breathless that they become disabled. Silicosis also increases the risk of serious lung infections such as tuberculosis (TB). This usually follows many years of exposure and is irreversible, but exceptionally high exposures over a few months or years can also be responsible.
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Consider the health and safety of the operator and of others when cut-off saws are used. Use suitable personal protective equipment (PPE), such as hard hats, eye protection and ear defenders. Make sure these items are worn correctly and are suitable for use together.
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