Silica dust exposure and risk
Clay contains crystalline silica, most of which is chemically combined with other materials. The crystalline silica that is not chemically combined is often referred to as ‘free silica’ and in this form it poses a serious health risk.
Fine dust particles containing free silica are the biggest concern because they can:
1. Be invisible to the naked eye under normal lighting conditions
2. Be airborne for long periods of time in your breathing zone
3. Penetrate deep into the lungs when inhaled.
Breathing in silica dust may ultimately lead to a lung disease known as silicosis. This is an irreversible disease that continues to develop after exposure has stopped. The greater the airborne concentration of silica and the more prolonged the exposure, the greater the risk.
-Clay should be kept damp while in use; dry/unusable clay should be binned
-Floors should be kept clean, but no dry sweeping (though should be dried to avoid slipping. All personal belongings should be kept safe from clay dust or out of walking path
-Tables should be washed down at the end of every session
-All drips of slip should be wiped from the mould and not allowed to dry out
-Surfaces with drips on should be wiped and so should all associated equipment
-Dry clay should not be fettled and damp sponging should be used
-An apron should be worn at all times when working with clay and then taken off and washed when away, for the next session.
From following these procedures there will be a much less risk of contracting silicosis.