Silica is a mineral found in sand, rocks, and soil. Silica dust is produced during work processes such as digging and blasting, or grinding, drilling, or sawing silica-containing materials. Silica is used as an abrasive, insulator, and filler in a number of industries. Silica causes a number of chronic diseases including lung cancer, silicosis (scarring of the lungs), and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Cancer and chronic disease in the Ontario mining industry
The Ontario Mining Exposure Database
Evaluation of prevention strategies for reducing the burden of cancer in the Ontario construction industry
Occupational exposure limits for carcinogens in Ontario workplaces: Opportunities to prevent and control exposure
The Burden of Occupational Cancer
On April 28th, we remember and honour people who have lost their lives, been injured or suffer from illness due to their work.
