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Silica Program

Crystalline Silica is a basic component of soil, sand, granite and many other minerals. Quartz is the most common form of Crystalline Silica. All work involving mixing, crushing, chipping, cutting, drilling, grinding, or similar activities on materials containing Crystalline Silica can lead to the release of respirable-sized particles of Crystalline Silica. Respirable Crystalline Silica exposure at hazardous levels can lead to lung cancer, silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and kidney disease.

Central Michigan University has developed a Respirable Crystalline Silica Program to meet the requirements of MIOSHA Silica Occupational Health Standards (MIOSHA Part 590, Silica in General Industry, and MIOSHA Part 690, Silica in Construction), and the Respirable Crystalline Silica Construction Standard established by OSHA (29 CFR 1926.1153).