Silicosis - On The Rise?

Whilst silica is a naturally occurring substance found in most rocks, clay and sand, when it is processed in any way whether through mining, cutting, crushing or grinding, silica dust is generated which if inhaled can cause significant chest conditions including lung cancer, silicosis, COPD (including bronchitis and emphysema) and chest infections of varying severity.

Whilst silica is a naturally occurring substance found in most rocks, clay and sand, when it is processed in any way whether through mining, cutting, crushing or grinding, silica dust is generated.  If inhaled, it can cause significant chest conditions including lung cancer, silicosis, COPD (including bronchitis and emphysema) and chest infections of varying severity.  Indeed, the NHS describes silicosis as, 'a long term incurable lung disease caused by inhaling large amounts of silica dust' and notes that silicosis in itself can cause heart failure, arthritis, kidney disease and TB.