This page was last reviewed 21-05-20
Silicosis occurs as a result of inhalation of crystalline silica.The occupations at risk are:
- stonemasons
- selected coal miners
- sandblasters
- construction workers
- renovation and demolition workers
- tunnelling workers
- fettlers
- glass workers.
Workers, particularly when young, may be entirely asymptomatic and occupational health screening is not universal.
The damage is irreversible and progressive even after exposure has ceased.
