Ceramic Dust Exposure

Workers who use porcelain ceramic and clay products are at risk for exposure to toxic minerals and substances.

Ceramic dust exposure. Glazes can be dipped brushed poured or sprayed on the ceramic piece. Use vent system at the source. Many masks are sold in drug stores that do not qualify. Or in another room.

This simply means dusty lung. Dust masks should be used if and when dust cannot be avoided. Sweep or making clay just before you leave at night allows dust to settle. Crystalline silica is a basic component of soil sand granite and many other minerals.

Pick up the dust before it gets into the studio. Some types of lung diseases caused by the inhalation of dust are called by the general term pneumoconiosis. When someone inhales silica dust the particles can attach to the lining of the lungs causing scar tissue and fluid buildup. Use only a niosh national institute for occupational safety and health approved masks rated for fine toxic dust.

Lead compounds are highly toxic by inhalation or ingestion. One of the greatest risks in this industry is exposure to respirable crystalline silica or silica dust. Cristobalite and tridymite are two other forms of crystalline silica. Quartz is the most common form of crystalline silica.

The changes which occur in the lungs vary with the different types of dust. Ceramic educational programs are coming under increased scrutiny because of dust concerns. For example the injury caused by exposure to silica is marked by islands of scar tissue surrounded by normal lung tissue. Ceramic arts crafts production and lab testing can generate a lot of dust if it is not managed properly.

Time exposure is what matters. Low level constant is the worse. Kilns should be vented properly. Ventilation is the key.

These materials are often in fine powdered form and result in high dust exposures. Most of the following suggestions will greatly reduce your exposure to dust taken together they should make your workplace safe.