James Hardie® products contain crystalline silica. Excessive or protracted inhalation of fine particle silica dust can lead to a lung disease called silicosis. There is also some evidence that it may increase the risk of lung cancer if inhaled for prolonged periods of time. Smoking may also exacerbate this risk.
Does Hardie board contain silica?
From 1991 to 2010, the market share of fiber-cement siding has climbed from 1% to 13% [U.S. Census Bureau 2013]. Fiber-cement products can contain as much as 50% crystalline silica and cutting this material with a power saw has been shown to cause excessive ex- posures to respirable crystalline silica.
Is Fibre cement hazardous?
Fibre cement is non-toxic in its intact form. The following applies to respirable dust that may be generated during cutting, rebating, drilling, routing, sawing, crushing or otherwise abrading fibre cement. IF INHALED: Dusts may cause upper respiratory tract irritation, resulting in coughing and sneezing.
Does cement sheet have silica?
Crystalline silica is a common mineral found in most rocks, sands and clays. It is present in things like concrete, bricks, mortar, pavers, tiles, cement sheeting, natural stone products and engineered stone slabs. There are three forms of crystalline silica: quartz, cristobalite and tridymite.
What are the symptoms of silicosis?
These commonly include bronchitis-like symptoms such as persistent cough, shortness of breath and difficulty breathing. People also suffer from weakness, fatigue, fever, night sweats, leg swelling and bluish discoloration of the lips.
Is Hardie tile backer board fireproof?
Yes, HardieBacker® 1/4″ Cement Board is deemed noncombustible when tested to ASTM E 136 and can be used in conjunction with other noncombustible materials around a fireplace.
How dangerous is cement dust?
They are exposed to different types of health hazards such as fume, gases and dust, which are risk factors in developing occupational disease. Cement dust causes lung function impairment, chronic obstructive lung disease, restrictive lung disease, pneumoconiosis and carcinoma of the lungs, stomach and colon.
Can lungs heal from silica?
When silica dust enters the lungs, it causes the formation of scar tissue, which makes it difficult for the lungs to take in oxygen. There is no cure for silicosis.
Can lungs remove silica?
The cells within the lungs have difficulty in clearing the silica particles. The only way to get the retained dust out of the lungs is either to pass it on to other cells or cough it up in phlegm or sputum.
Can you survive silicosis?
Silicosis IS NOT CURABLE, but it IS PREVENTABLE—to live a long and healthy life, learn the facts and know how to protect yourself and your family.
When does silica not need to be classified?
STOT RE 2, if the crystalline silica (fine fraction) concentration is between 1 and 10%. If the crystalline silica (fine fraction) content in mixtures and substances is below 1%, no classification is required.
What are the dangers of exposure to silica dust?
The Hazards Of Silica Dust. Crystalline silica is a common mineral in the earth’s crust and is found in many types of rock including sand, quartz, and granite. Silica is present in both work and non-work environments, and exposure to crystalline silica dust has long been known to cause a disease called silicosis.
Is it safe to use silica sand as a blasting material?
Silica sand or other substances containing more than 1% crystalline silica should never be used as abrasive blasting materials. Where silica exceeds 1% of the content, less hazardous materials should be substituted. In addition, always follow safe work practices when there is possible exposure to silica dust.
Is there an exemption for crystalline silica in reach?
Consequently, crystalline silica – quartz or cristobalite and related products – which do not result from a chemical modification and are manufactured or imported and placed on the market in Europe fall under this exemption and are not registered under REACH.
