Construction workers are at risk for exposure to silica, which can cause respiratory injuries in its crystallized form. Respirable crystalline silica particles are created when cutting, grinding, drilling and crushing silica-containing materials. This includes stone, rock, concrete, brick, block and mortar. According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), more than
2.3 million workers in the United States are exposed to crystalline silica dust — 90% of which are employed in construction.
