The newest technical module produced by the Marble Institute of America (MIA) is devoted to the subject of silicosis; a disabling, nonreversible and sometimes fatal lung disease caused by overexposure to respirable crystalline silica (granite, slate and quartz dust).

Like the recently released MIA video of the same title, the module illustrates how to eliminate the threat of silicosis in the workplace. It covers the particulars of prevention, including the equipment and procedures required to eliminate silicosis as a threat. It includes sections on wet cutting and grinding, water treatment systems, which remove the residual crystalline silica and air purifications systems that extract silica dust from the air and deposit it into disposable cartridges.

“This technical module was produced in the spirit of our alliance with OSHA,” stated Gary Distelhorst, MIA Executive Vice President. “It reaffirms our commitment to the safety and health of those working in the natural stone industry.”

The MIA recommends that stone fabricators require that each employee review the MIA silicosis video, and that they also receive their personal copy of the new technical module as part of OSHA required safety and health training.

Copies of “Silicosis, an Industry Guide to Awareness and Prevention” are available to MIA members for $11.00 each (non-members $16.00) and can be ordered on the MIA Web site at www.marble-institute.com or by calling MIA at 440-250-9222. Volume discounts are available for larger orders.