Australia reports on audit of silicosis for stonecutters
Date Added:
March 4, 2019
Journal/Publication:
The Lancet
Publisher:
Elsevier
Publication Date:
March 2, 2019
Issue:
10174
Volume:
393
Pages:
861
Type:
Clinical Research Results, Public Health Announcements
Format:
Article
DOI (1):
10.1016/S0140-6736(19)30478-7
Abstract
Poorly managed working practices, including poor provision of education to artificial stonecutters, has led to what has been called an epidemic of silicosis. Tony Kirby reports.
On Feb 21, 2019, Australia's national news network ABC reported the results of an audit of the stonecutting industry ordered by the Queensland Government late in 2018, after several silicosis cases were reported to state regulators. Stonemasons are exposed because crystalline silica is produced during the drilling and cutting of products such as manufactured stone, tiles, and bricks. In the past decade, there has been a huge growth in these products, driven by increased new home construction across Australia.
Text Availability
Commercial full text (fees may apply)
RPR Commentary
Never mind that this report on silicosis in stone cutters (think granite counter tops) comes from Australia. The same problem exists in Oklahoma. In fact, it is the focus of study of several faculty in the OU College of Public Health. Pay attention to the occupational hazards of your patients.