"<p><strong>WHAT IS SILICA?<\/strong><\/p>\r\n<p>Silica, specifically crystalline silica, is a mineral commonly found in materials like concrete, brick, mortar, and<br>natural stone. In buildings, it is often encountered during activities such as cutting, grinding, or demolishing these<br>materials. When silica dust is inhaled, it can pose significant health risks, including the development of silicosis, a<br>chronic lung disease characterized by inflammation and scarring of lung tissue. Long-term exposure to silica dust<br>can also lead to other serious conditions such as lung cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and<br>kidney disease. Workers in construction, demolition, or mining industries are particularly at risk, and protective<br>measures like dust control and respiratory protection are essential to minimize exposure. The Occupational Safety<br>and Health Administration (OSHA) regulation 29 CFR 1926.1153 requires construction employers to keep worker<br>exposures at or below a Permissible Exposure Level (PEL) of 50 \u03bcg\/m3<\/p>"