Silicosis is a serious and fatal respiratory disease that can result from exposure to fine silica particles that are present in ceramic clay. Those working with clay for an extended period of time, need to protect themselves against dust inhalation that could cause irreparable lung damage.
Why Silica Dust is Dangerous
Silica particles are extremely small pieces of glass. These particles of glass can easily be inhaled when they become airborne in dust. Once inside of the lungs, they cut into the healthy lung tissue and embed themselves into the lung.
To understand how the particles affect the lung, it is best to imagine the silica as little saws. Each time a person inhales and exhales, the silica saws back and forth into the lung tissue. Over time, this sawing creates scar tissue in the lungs. Because scar tissue cannot absorb oxygen, the lungs lose effectiveness and can't get enough oxygen to the body.
When silica dust builds up in the lungs, more scar tissue develops. This results in Silicosis. Silicosis is fatal can occur years after the initial exposure to the silica. Those diagnosed with Silicosis will experience progressive breathing problems until the lungs fail to supply the body with adequate oxygen.
There is no current treatment for Silicosis so prevention is key. People should avoid exposure to any dust containing silica and use precautionary measures to protect themselves against Silicosis.
Steps to Prevent Silicosis
Dry dust is the most dangerous element in the ceramic studio. When clay is in a moist form, there is no danger of inhaling ceramic dust. The danger arises after clay has become bone dry. For this reason, artists should never sand or chip at dry clay. Ceramicists should also avoid using brooms that can kick up dry clay dust.
It is wise to always have a spray bottle of water handy. This can be used to spray dusty shelves or floors so that dry dust won't become airborne. Wet mops can also be used to clean dusty areas. Keeping a clean space can help prevent clay dust from building up. Ceramic artists should clean work spaces as often as possible to eliminate excess clay dust.
When exposure to dust is inevitable, face masks can be used to prevent inhalation. When wearing a mask, it is essential that the edge of the mask is flush against the skin. If there are gaps in the mask, the clay dust will still be inhaled.
Masks should also never be stored in an area where dust could gather, because they could accumulate the dust inside the mask. Instead, masks should be stored in a clean plastic bag. Dust cannot be cleaned from masks, so any masks exposed to dust need to be discarded.
Use Caution in the Ceramic Studio
Any ceramicist needs to understand the dangers of Silicosis so that they can stay safe. Simple steps like using spray bottles and wearing masks can prevent silica inhalation. By observing cautious safety procedures, ceramic artists can protect their lungs and stay healthy.
Related Articles
- The Properties of Ceramic Clay - The best ways to work with ceramic clay.
- Common Pottery Glazing Mistakes - How to avoid mistakes glazing pottery.
Sources
- Medicine.net, "Definition of Silicosis" (Assessed Feb. 9, 2010)
Elizabeth Beeson - Elizabeth spends most of her time wielding a torch and creating original wearable art for her jewelry line: Quite Clever Jewelry. She also ...
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