RISK MANAGEMENT AND ANALYSIS OF SILICA DUST

HAZARDS IN LOCAL STONE CRUSHING INDUSTRY

Author

Wajid Ali
2001-CHEM-171

Supervised By

Dr.Nehar Ullah Khan

DEPARTMENT OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERING

UNIVERSITY OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY
PESHAWAR
May, 2017
 RISK MANAGEMENT AND ANALYSIS OF SILICA DUST
HAZARDS IN LOCAL STONE CRUSHING INDUSTRY.

Author

Wajid Ali
2001-CHEM-171

This thesis is submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of

M.Sc. Chemical Engineering

Thesis Supervisor:

Dr.NeharUllah Khan

Department of Chemical Engineering UET Peshawar

Internal Examiner Signature: ___________________________________________

External Examiner Signature: ___________________________________________

Thesis Supervisor Signature: ____________________________________________

DEPARTMENT OF CHEMICAL ENGINEERING

UNIVERSITY OF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY, PESHAWAR
May, 2017

I
ABSTRACT

Silica dust hazards associated with local stone crushing industry causes Silicosis. Inhaling a
prolonged crystalline silicon dioxide or silica causes this terrible disease. The current study was
carried out among stone crusher workers to assess the hazards of silica dust and associated
effects on the workers health due to their exposure to silica dust. Stone crusher impact zones
are covered with Granite, Silica sand and Morrum. The various crushing operations involved in
stone crushing, e.g. blasting, manual cutting, crushing and transportation, emit fleeting stone
dust. These fine particles of stone dust cause health problems like silicosis, asthma etc. among
the stone crusher workers. Spirometery (pulmonary function test) and radiology was carried
out to assess lungs function of the worker and to find the occurrence of silicosis and other
associated diseases in the workers. The study was carried on 157 male workers of age group 25-
35, 35-40 and >45 with exposure time 8-12 hours and >12 hours in stone crushers and
cement factories in Peshawar, Charsadda, Kohat, Karak, Bannu and Lakki Marwat areas. To find
suspended particles and respirable particulate matter in the stone crusher atmosphere high
volume sampler was used. Occupational disclosure to silica dust leads to growth of various
pulmonary sicknesses, silicosis is most important of them. On comparing pulmonary function
test of the workers and results derived from high volume sampler, it is concluded that due to
exposure of silica containing dust it leads to deterioration of pulmonary functions in workers.
Wet working, suitable ventilation where applicable, usage of PPEs and information about
preventive measures is recommended for better protection to the workers health.

Keywords: Silicosis, Fvc, Fev1, Spirometery, Radiology

II
UNDERTAKING

I declare that this research work under the title of Risk management and analysis of silica dust

hazards in local stone crushing industry. is my personal research. This research work has not

been published anywhere, while data taken from other sources are properly acknowledged

with reference

Wajid Ali

2001-CHEM-171

III
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

I am very much thankful to Allah, Who gave me the courage, strength, and endurance to

complete my research work on time. I will also pay my tributes to Holy Prophet (peace be upon

him), who is indeed a role model and source of knowledge himself, for all those who seek

knowledge.

I acknowledge and appreciate the sincere cooperation of my supervisor Dr. Neharullah Khan

whose support and cooperation remained a light in the dark during this research work. His

expertise, persistent devotion and precious time during the whole process were more than

anything valuable. This desertion was not possible with his support and guidance.

I also recognize the financial, academic and technical sustenance of University of

Engineering and Technology Peshawar. I acknowledge the support of Department of Industries

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Especially EPA Khyber Pakhtunkhwa for allowing me using their

equipment and lab facility and their human resource. In the last I would appreciate the efforts

and help provided by the staff of labour department inspection staff for arrangement of field

visits to different stone crushers and cement plants. I can rightly say that without their efforts

this research work would have never made possible.

IV
TABLE OF CONTENTS

ABSTRACT ................................................................................................................II
UNDERTAKING .........................................................................................................III
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ..........................................................................................IV
TABLE OF. CONTENTS .............................................................................................V
LIST OF. FIGURES ....................................................................................................VIII
LIST OF. TABLES...IX
LIST OF. ABBREVIATIONS..........................................................................................X
NOTATIONS AND SYMBOLS......................................................................................XI

CHAPTER 1:
GENERAL .INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................1
1.1. INTRODUCTION ...............................................................................................1
1.2. PROBLEM .STATEMENT ...................................................................................3
1.3. RESEARCH .OBJECTIVES......................................................................................3

CHAPTER.2:
LITERATURE .SURVEY................................................................................................... 4
2.1. INTRODUCTION. ...............................................................................................4
2.2. GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES OF SILICOSIS..................................................................4
2.3. HUMAN HEALTH PERSPECTIVES OF SILICA HAZARDS.........................................5
2.4. VEGETATION PERSPECTIVES OF SILICA DUST......................................................7
2.5. RISK FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH SILICOSIS ......................................................7
2.6. PREVENTIVE MEASURES AGAINST SILICOSIS 9

V
 CHAPTER 3:
MATERIAL AND METHODS.......................................................................................12

3.1. HIGH VOLUME SAMPLER.12

3.1.1. INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................12
3.1.2. SELECTION OF SAMPLING SITE....................................13
3.1.3. SELECTION OF FILTER MEDIUM..13
3.1.4. PREPARING THE FILTER PRIOR TO USE..13
3.1.5. INSTALLATION OF FILTER ...............................................................................14
3.1.6. PRECAUTIONS TO BE FOLLOWED DURING ANALYSIS ....................................14

3.2. HEALTH ASSESSMENT14

3.2.2. PULMONARY FUNCTION TEST.15

a. SPIROMETRY OF STONE CRUSHER WORKERS..15

b. RADIOLOGY16

CHAPTER .4:
RESULTS AND .DISCUSSIONS
4.1.1 INRODUCTION..............................................................................................17
4.1.2. STONE CRUSHING INDUSTRY IN KPK AND FACTUAL POSITION.....................17
4.1.3. SELECTION OF SITES FOR RESEARCH.19
4.2. HEALTH EFFECT OF DUST & MEDICAL INVESTIGATIONS OF WORKERS ...........19
4.2.1. GENERAL EXAMINATION...20
4.2.2. SPIROMETRIC MEASUREMENTS (PULMONARY FUNCTION TEST)..................21
4.2.3. CHEST RADIOGRAPHS (CHEST X-RAY).............................................................24
4.3 ANALYSIS OF AIR QUALITY .................................................................................26
4.3.1. DATA EXTRACTED FROM HIGH VOLUME SAMPLER........................................26
4.3.2. PAK-EPA AMBIENT AIR STANDARDS................................................................27
4.3.3. CLUSTER WISE COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PARTICULATE MATTER
CONCENTRATION AND MEDICAL RESULTS.........................................................................30

VI
 a. ANALYSIS AT CLUSTER 1 (P1-P3) .......................................................30
b. ANALYSIS AT CLUSTER 2 (P4-P6) .......................................................30
c. ANALYSIS AT CLUSTER 3 (P7-P9) .......................................................31

CONCLUSION.32

RECOMMENDATIONS..34
REFERENCES36

VII
LIST OF FIGURES

Figure 3.1 High Volume Sampler .................................................................................................... 17

Figure 3.2 Spirometer ...................................................................................................................... 22

Figure 3.3 Chest X ray (radiology)................................................................................................... 22

Figure 4.1 view of stone crushing process .................................................................................... 32

Figure 4.2 FEV1/FVC % V/S age group for cluster 1
Figure 4.3 FEV1/FVC % V/S age group for cluster 2
Figure 4.4 FEV1/FVC % V/S age group for cluster 3
Figure 4.5 Lung Function Parameters of Stone Crusher workers: According to Duration of Exposure

Figure 4.6 cluster wise %abnormal radiological result

Figure 4.7 Xray results of some stone crusher workers .............................................................. 30

Figure 4.8 Variation of PM10/TSP% at stone crushers

VIII
LIST OF TABLES

Table 4.1 List of stone crushers and cement factories selected for study .............................. 18

Table 4.2 Lung Function Parameters of Stone Crusher workers according to Age
Group..24

Table 4.3 Lung Function Parameters of Stone Crusher workers: According to Duration
of Exposure ................................................................................................................................... 31

Table 4.4 Table 4.4, workers x-ray results .................................................................................. 36

Table 4.5 Pak EPA ambient air quality standards ....................................................................... 38

Table 4.6 Total Suspended and Respirable Particulate Matter Concentration ...................... 40

Table 4.7 Results analysis of cluster 1 .......................................................................................... 40

Table 4.8 Results analysis of cluster 2 .......................................................................................... 40

Table 4.9 Results analysis of cluster 3 .......................................................................................... 42

IX
ABBREVIATIONS

OSH: occupational safety and health

ILO: International Labour .Organization

WHO: World Health .Organization

CPCB: Central Pollution Control Board

PPE: Personal .Protective .Equipment

NIOSH: National Institute for .Occupational.Safety and Health

HVS: volume sampler

FVC: forced vital .capacity

FEV1: forced expiratory .volume

PEF: peak expiratory .flow rate

TB: Tuberculosis

DHQ: District Head Quarter

EPA: Environmental Protection Agency

TSP: Total Suspended Particle

X
NOTATIONS AND SYMBOLS

SiO2; silicon dioxide (silica)

m; micrometer
PM10; particulate matter 10

XI
 CHAPTER01

INTRODUCTION

1.1. GENERAL INTRODUCTION

Occupational inhalation of crystalline silica (silica or silicon dioxide) dust as happens in

various mining and other rock abrasive works is the cause of silicosis. However, the risk of
silicosis be influenced by on a number of causes, including 1) nature of the dust, 2)the intensity
and 3)duration of exposure as well as individual susceptibility (Danilaet al, 2009).Silicosis, the
oldest known occupational lung disease and most common pneumoconiosis, still becoming
reason of killing thousands of humans around the world every year, (ILO & WHO, 2003). It is an
incurable and irreversible fibrotic lung disease which continues to progress even after
exposure has stopped. Rapid action of the disease can be expected with extremely high
exposures and with much shorter invisibility (Danilaet al, 2009; Buchanan. et al, 2003).
However, this deadly disease can also show its effects late in life in cases where workers are
exposed to long and steady work in mines, quarries, foundries, construction sites, glass
manufacture, ceramics, abrasive powders, and masonry workshops (WHO, 2000). Silica or
silicon dioxide (SiO2),It is combination of silica and oxygen atoms. Silica is colorless, odorless
and non-combustible solid having melting point at 1,600 C. as earth crust is composed of
about 75% silica so silica can rightly be called a compound available everywhere around us in
our environment. About 25% of minerals contain silicates, and 90% of earth crust is composed
of 40% of common minerals these well-known minerals found in many rocks, such as marble
stone , sandstone, flint stone and slate etc.
Silica is commonly found in 3 forms: crystalline silica, microcrystalline silica (cryptocrystalline)
and amorphous silica (non-crystalline). Free silica is found as composition of pure silicon
dioxide, without any combination with other metals or elements, while silicates (e.g mica,
asbestos and talc) are silicon dioxide in combination with considerable amount of cations.
Further crystalline silica occurs in seven different forms or polymorphs, temperature of

1
formation differentiate them. Among these 3 main polymorphs are 1) quartz, 2)cristobalite and
3)tridimite. Quartz is further classified in alpha and beta forms. However naturally occurring
quarts are mostly alpha quartz and alpha-quartz contains most crystalline silica. The most
commonly available mineral in the world is quartz. Less harmful silica forms are considered to
be diatomaceous earth, opal, silica fume, silica-rich fiberglass, silica glass (silica vitreous) and
mineral wool.
Anybody or especially workers working in such environment where dust containing silica is
produced there workers or anybody is in exposure to crystalline silica. Occupational process like
quarrying, mining, mineral processing (e.g. drying, cutting, grinding, bagging and handling),
slate working, stone crushing and dressing, foundry work, brick and tile making, some
refractory processes, construction work, including work with stone, concrete, brick and some
insulation boards, tunneling, building restoration and in the pottery and ceramic are silica dust
producing process. In such like working processes workers are vulnerable to silicosis when sand
or rocky material is cut in to such breathable size (<0.5 to 5.0 micrometers in diameter). Recent
research work reveals the workers exposed to crystalline silica in the world around e.g >23
million workers are bare to crystalline silica in China and >10 million in India, as well as >3
million workers in Europe and >1.7 million in the United States.

The Supreme court of Pakistan while taking notice of the human rights case no. 16143-p of
2014(application by Usama Khawar for taking action against hazardous emission of dust by
stone/marble crushing and grinding) has asked Provincial Government, to formulate a
mechanism for strict implementation of the Health and Safety law in the province so that to
provide the workers with the healthy working environment resulting in safer healthy and
productive manufacturing process. The case arose when a stone crusher worker namely usama
khawar was diagnosed with silicosis. Main reason for his illness was lack of awareness and poor
Health and safety arrangement from the employer. It is pertinent to mention here that, silicosis
is often misdiagnosed as tuberculosis and similarly that, the employers have no record of the
workers illness or their demise as they often tend to leave their jobs and locate back to their
villages when diagnosed with the disease.

2
1.2. PROBLEM STATEMENT

Silicosis can rightly be called as silent killer. The issue was mainly highlighted by a sue moto
case of supreme court of Pakistan. Though was not any reported case of silicosis in KPK.
However potential hazards existed due to unawareness and poor health and safety measures
taken at workplace. So far no research work has been done on the issue in Khyber
Pakhtunkhwa therefore this research work will be one of its kind and will play a vital role in
prevention and risk management of silicosis hazards in silica dust producing stone crushers. The
topic is also of high value because of the reason that employers and their workers associated
with silica dust producing industry in the province will come to know about the potential hazard
to their health.

1.3. OBJECTIVES

a. To determine whether exposure control practices (both application of engineering controls

and the use of DPI) are adequate to reduce exposures below WEL for RCS
b. To study and investigate in to potential and available hazards of silicosis in local stone
crushers
c. Effect of silica on health of workers associated with stone crushers.
d. To devise suggestion to avoid or reduce effect of silica on workers health to minimum level.
e. To reduce effect of silica on workers health
f. To form an opinion about the long-term reliability of the controls
g. To identify common causes of failures of exposure control
h. To provide data by which the effect of OSH interventions can be assessed.
i. To look into gender concerns of silicosis.
j. To make recommendations to improve risk management / OSH condition at
Workplace in stone crushers.

3
 CHAPTER 02

LITERATURE SURVEY

2.1. INTRODUCTION

The risks of crystalline silica among stone crusher workers exposed to silica have been well
documented the world over (ILO/WHO, 2003; Mannetjeet al, 2002; Oxmanet al, 1993;
Snideret al, 1978; Paul, 1961).The risk factors and prevalence of this disease vary from country
to country and are highly dependent on the environmental and safety conditions at work sites,
and to some extent the nations social economic status. Though silica born lung diseases in
stone crusher workers exists in Pakistan and cases have also come on screen but there isnt any
reliable and well documented data regarding stone crusher workers affected.

2.2. GLOBAL PERSPECTIVES OF SILICA HAZARDS

World Health Organization (WHO) Fact sheet, number 238, of the month of May 2000,
recorded for the period 1991-1995, inChina only, greater than 500,000 cases of silicosis were
recorded, recorded statistics reveals that reported new cases were 6,000, and death tol per
year was 24,000. Amongst the deads statistics shows that most workers were in old ages.
Whereas data recorded in Vietnam shows that silicosis effected workers were almost 9,000.
However statistics recorded in India shows that silicosis exist in a particular group of workers
who were in tender ages, working in the extracting of sandy rock and following work in tiny
and unhygienic improper ventilated sheds.
Research work on silicosis affected workers engaged in pencil manufacturing in central India
indicated higher death rates. The usual dead age was recorded to be 35 years with normal
working duration of 12 hours a day. More than 4500 workers were diagnosed with silicosis in
the state of Minas Gerais. In north east of Brazil where there exist digging process of wells
through conventional way (hand-digging)result in production of high quartz content 97%in a
limited space result in silicosis cases. 26% of silicosis cases with most of the cases of accelerated
silicosis. Progress on the work on sandblastingin Rio de Janeiro was banned after several of

4
workers were diagnosed with silicosis. A number greater than 10,00,000 In the United States of
America was recorded to be (USA), it is occupationally open to dust containing free crystalline
silica dusts. Records show that as more as 100,000 of the workers are involved in sandblasting,
59,000.of these workers are suspected to will finally grow silicosis. Reports indicate that every
year 300 workers die of it this figure is not confirmed to be true figure. Abrasive blasting was
connected to have expose more than 200 time as described standard by National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health. United States National Institute for Occupational Safety
and Health suggested to ban silica sand as abrasive blasting agent. In Canada in the state of
Quebec, during 1988-1994 40 workers were suspected were compensated amongst them
twelve were < 40 years of age. Statistics issued by the Colombian Government feared that the
number of workers in the country suspected to develop silicosis were 1.8 million. We can rightly
say that the menace of silicosis is not associated with development of the country it is rather
associated with the high value and income generated processes of mining, blasting, extraction
etc. silicosis attacks older as well as young age workers depending upon the situation, reducing
the workers working ability and life span. We can rightly say on the basis of statistics that 26%
to 55% silicosis exist amongst the workers associated with dust generated processes.

2.3.HUMAN HEALTH PERSPECTIVES OF SILICA HAZARDS

Contamination in the air exists in the shape of vapors, gases aerosols, Weihong Chen, Yuewei
Liu, Xiji Huang and Yi Rong [1]. Air contained mist, smoke, fumes, dust, may be called aerosols.
All these kind of aerosol are important because they are related to different kind of
occupational illnesses. However air contained dust of greater concern because they Airborne
dusts containing crystalline silica are of particular worry because they are well known to be
associated with different pulmonic diseases e.g chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
pneumoconiosis,.occupational asthma. Workers associated with dust producing processes are
always vulnerable but they are particularly in developing countries and wherever there is more
poverty and low job availability.

Norbert Wagner Mannarswami Nithiyananthan Laura Farina [3], this research work is about to
provide guidance and information regarding improvement of working condition and to provide

5
how working condition can be made better in stone crushing units it will guide govt, workers,
employers and implementers for proper application of OSH at working sites.
Study showed that mining and stone crushing process are important for development because
without these process we cant build roads, buildings etc and other modern facilities. In India
there exist almost 12000 crushing plants employing almost 500.000. we can say crushing
industry is one of the biggest industry in Asia and millions of workers are associated with it
earning money of them but most of the stone crushing units doesnt follow the health and
safety standards and workers works in unhygienic conditions. Accidents, loosing hearing ability,
lungs diseases are major illnesses associated with stone crushing processes. But important to
declare that prevention of these diseases is possible with low cost and by improving working
conditions.

Exposure to respirable Particulates and Silica in and around the Stone Crushing Units was
studied by Krishnendu MUKHOPADHYAY, Ayyappan RAMALINGAM, Raghunathan RAMANI,
Venkatesan DASU1, Arulselvan SADASIVAM, Pramod KUMAR2, Shyam Narayan PRASAD2,
Sankar SAMBANDAM1 and Kalpana BALAKRISHNAN1 [14].According to research particulate
matter and respirable silica detected were noticed to be greater than the standard set by
national and international. However particulate matter and silica concentration recorded in the
nearby villages were recorded to be less as compared to the crushing plants.It took two years
to complete the study with variation in seasons and different timings, weathers, temp etc to
provide data of silica concentrations. To monitor the process, NIOSH standard were followed.
Innovative dust reduction dry engineering control system was installed to see the process. As
demand of the project using engineering control the dust emission was reduced and produced
encouraging results. Results derived from the this research work showed tht silicosis is a
pulmonary disease which is irreversible, deadly and curable,

Consequent upon inhaling of high concentration of silica dust working in a dusty environment
over long periods fibrotic is developed Michael I. Greenberg, MD, MPH, Javier Waksman, MD,
and John Curtis, MD [15]. It has been found that silicosis develops when worker have extensive
exposure to occupational silica dust. Silicosis may silently occur unexposed and undiagnosed in

6
the workers over a long time having its adverse effect on the human lungs. The severity of the
disease depends upon the workers work history, amount of silica crystals present in the dust
and deposition of silica on the lungs.

2.4. VEGETATION PERSPECTIVE OF SILICA DUST

Polluted Ambient Air around Stone Crusher Industries Impacts Human and Vegetation. Study of
The concentration of particulate matter was found above the permissible limit in most of the
sites while the concentration of gaseous pollutants was found within the permissible limit as
per the standards given by Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB, 2009) G. S. GUPTA1, ANJANI
GUPTA2, M. K. GUPTA [2]... Particulate matter analysis indicated high amount of fine particles
and silica content posing serious health problems to the people exposed for longer duration. A
health survey conducted on stone mill workers and local people with the help of annual
hospital medical reports. This study indicates that most of the people were suffering from ARI
(Acute respiratory infection), bronchitis, asthma, skin disease, eye irritations, and heart
diseases. Particulate matter and gaseous pollutants exposure, also affected vegetation growth
due to adsorption of above pollutants on leaf, which prevented the process of respiration and
photosynthesis.

2.5. RISK FACTORS RELATED WITH EXPOSURE TO SILICA DUST

Buchanan et al (2003) [30] illustrated an exposure-response relation between exposure to
quartz in coal mine dust and silicosis. From their reanalyzed data of a Scottish colliery, they
established that dose of exposure to silica powder was as important as prolonged exposure.
They concluded that exposure to relatively high silica concentrations at short durations of even
a few months can lead to silicosis. Buchanan et al thus showed that concentration of silica as
well as duration of exposure to silica was important risk factors of silicosis.

According to Mannetjeet al (2002), [31] the relation between exposure to crystalline silica and
silicosis mortality is predictive. Mortality due to silicosis was noted to increase steadily with
increase in either length of exposure to silica bearing rock or percentage concentration of silica
in the surrounding rock. They observed that those who died of silicosis had a median duration

7
of exposure of 28 years and a median cumulative exposure of 7.15 mg/m3-years (compared to
respectively 10 years and 0.62 mg/m3-years for the whole cohort).

Chen et al. (2001), [53] during the period 1960 to 1965 examined 3010 miners employed by
four Chinese tin mines. The study team established a silicosis prevalence of 33.7percent. The
silicotics had a main age of 48.3 years with an average elapsed time of 21.3 years since their
first exposure to silica. The team also established that 67.4percent of the silicotics developed
the disease an average 3.7 years after they had retired from tin mining. Cumulative exposure to
silica ((mg/m3)-years) was established as a strong predictor of the risk of silicosis.

Lee et al (2001) [64] reported that silicosis continues to progress from simple forms to more
advanced and complex forms. They established a positive association between the period of
follow up and the radiological progression to more advanced forms of silicosis. They also
established that an early cessation to silica exposure was associated with a less progression
to more advanced forms of silicosis.

In his commentary, Ian Greaves (2000) [64] states that four parameters were needed for proper
assessment of individuals risk of silicosis; the intensity of exposure (measured by the airborne
level of respirable silica), the period of exposure, the period from principal exposure (latency),
and the crystalline form of silica (quartz, tridymite, or cristobalite). He stated that tridymite and
cristobalite, though less common, were more toxic than quartz.
Rosenmanet al. (1996) [55] evaluated medical records and silica exposure data for 1,072 retired
and in-service workers of an iron foundry, which produced engine blocks for the automotive
industry. They established that the danger of silicosis increased with years of service,
quantitative and cumulative silica exposure ((mg/m3)-years), work area, and cigarette smoking.

In an attempt to establish the exposure-response relationships for silicosis Kreiss and Zhen
(1996) [17] investigated one hundred and thirty four (134) male miners aged forty (40) years
and more in Leadville, Colorado. They settled that the hazard of silicosis was best forecasted by

8
the time elapsed since the last exposure together with one; the cumulative exposure of silica
(mg / m3) -and of a duration of exposure (years).
Steenl and and Brown (1995)[ 21] evaluated male gold miners in South Dakota, who had
worked in underground mine work-sites in the period 1940 to 1965. The percentage of silica in
the mine dust averaged 13percent.The study found that the cumulative exposure of silica (mg /
m3) -years, exposure duration (years) and exposure intensity (mg / m3) were important
predictors of silicosis.
Thus, the studies reviewed in this section illustrate that the risk factors associated with silicosis
can be collapsed into four main factors; intensity of silica exposure measured in mg/m3,
duration of exposure (or duration of service in silica abrasive works) to silica measured in years,
cumulative silica exposure measured in (mg/m3)-years, and crystalline form of silica.

2.6. PREVENTATIVE MEASURES AGAINST SILICA DUST HAZARDS

From the first century AD when Pliny the elder suggested the miners to wrap their faces and
loose their bladders, which was believed to help them to see despite inhaling dangerous dust,
[71] all of the health and safety regulatory bodies are concentrated on this fact that workers
must use respiratory protection in all those industrial processes where there dust is produced
to safe guard the workers from pulmonary diseases. To protect sandblasters from dust effects,
PPEs and numerous types of engineering controls have been established. To reduce human
exposure to dust close and ventilated sandblast chambers may be used. These close chambers
contain pressure difference mechanism and deflector inside to help in venting the dust from
chamber. Amongst the equipment there are boots, helmets and comforter inside with fresh
filtered air. To avoid any dust chamber and filters should be checked regularly with care that
the workers must not take more time inside in side the chamber. An observer must be elected
to observe the process from outside. This kind of blasting has advantage that can be checked in
a better way than the open blasting. Close chamber blasting necessarily be done at proper
distance and with proper ventilation so that other worker are not affected. However for
thoseworkers who carry out open blasting they must wear proper protective equipment and
should adopt relevant technique to protect themselves.

9
For those processes where abrasion is producing silica care must be taken to use compressed
air respirator proper pressure requirement. Legal frame work has been established to control
the production of silica dust and save workers from its effect. Occupational exposure limit value
to crystalline silica as adjusted by OSHA for average eight hours time is 10 (ten) mg/m3 of.
Which is 200 times more than adjusted and recommended by NIOSH? 59, [72], [73] in 2001, the
American Hygiene Industry Conference assumed a limit rate of 0.05 mg / m3 for breathable
crystalline silica. This parallel is the suggested as exposure limit suggested by NIOSH in 1974. 3
[74]. Its not necessary different countries may have the same standards their standards may be
different e.g In the USA, during sandblasting abrasives processes must not cross the limit of 1%
of free silica, and on the other hand in UK those abrasives producing silica dust were banned
in1950s. Howdeaths because of silicosis have diminished in recent years as compared to death
toll in 1920 and 30s.
But, since recent past and in the very last decades, DM 410, in August 2007, deaths due to
silicosis has reduced to two hundreds/ year as recorded in late 1990s. Even having these good
figures regarding silicosis there is still violation and poor compliance ratio elevating the disease
ratio. A report published in 1983 reveals that even in USA in foundries every third worker was
exposed to crystalline silica due to noncompliance of silica control standards. [72] a report
reveals that during the time 1993-1999 in 16 states in USA the breathable quarts in non-mining
trade suggested the limit to be 0.05 mg / m3, as dogged by samples the obtained by OSHA. 8
Research work carried by NIOSH also revealed that silicosis was because of the reasons 1) sites
using silica abrasives, 2) poor ventilated workplaces and 3) unmanaged work practices [76].
Further, those working sites where un proper respiratory protection and patches that have not
adjusted on those sites workers medical condition may be considered at highest risk with
regard to silicosis [73]. Exposure limits of 1/3 samples revealed to have crossed the permissible
exposure limit during an inspection process in construction and metallurgical process [75]. It
was drawn that a proper mechanism to train the workers is required so that to enhance the
safety of workers to avoid chances of silicosis and silica exposure. To reduce chances of
occupational accidents and exposure to crystalline silica, OSHA In 1996 launched a "special
emphasis program". The focus area of this program was to inspect those areas where there was
a fear of silica exposure. [77] Subsequent the steps of reclassification of IARC's crystalline silica

10
as a human carcinogen, considerable controversy are there regarding the necessity to lessen
the allowed exposure limits.

11
 CHAPTER 03

MATERIALS AND METHODS

3.1 HIGH-VOLUME SAMPLER

3.1.1 INTRODUCTION;
Air that we inhale is composed of mixture of gases and solid particles (Air-borne particulate
matter) scattered in the air. These particles are different from one another with regard to
various properties e.g chemical composition, morphology, optical property, color/light
smattering, and electrical conductance i-e charge, resistance. Non-sphere-shaped Particles, are
generally are categorized on the basis of their aerodynamic diameter. In such like situation the
diameter of the particle is regarded as the diameter of a sphere of density {1g/cm3 having same
characteristic as such like particles}.
Normally dust particle hanging in the air have different size ranging some nanometers to
several hundreds. of micrometer m. naturally air suspended particulate matter has bimodal
mass distribution with respect to size whose shape depends on the biggest physical, and
chemical shape procedures of particles.

Fig. 3.1 High Volume Sampler

12
3.1.2. SELECTION OF SAMPLING SITE.
In this project as we had to monitor the dust effect on workers health working in stone
crushers therefore the high volume sampler (HVS) was set at position where workers mostly
work and come across with the dust. For obtaining better results the height of the device must
be kept at about (5-6 ft),because this would likely result in gatheringactual result as height is
almost same as worker inhale and exhale air.

3.1.3. SELECTION OF FILTER MEDIUM.

Usually in most of the cases while using HVS concentration is focused on finding the amount of
PM10 and TSP (total suspended particulate) concentration. For this particular purpose Glass
Micro fiber filters are used because they have little resistance to flow of air, smaller moisture
attraction and gathering competence of 99% for smaller particle of size 0.3 (microns) or particle
in bigger size are proper for this purpose. But where there is a need of additional investigation
of the particulates is to be tried, to determine precise elements/radicals. For this very purpose
those filter should be selected which have a low background concentration of particular
substances.
Therefore to find exact particle size and matter nature, Glass Microfibre filters Whatman
EPM2000 of distinctive quality was use to ascertain the particle size and concentration.

3.1.4. PREPARING THE FILTER PRIOR TO USE.

Preparation of filter is the key point of the process because the data afterward gathered will
depend upon this step. For this reason all the filter used were kept bare to light and looked for
small holes and dirt on surface as filters with deficiencies are unable to be used. To remove
small particle of dirt from the filter surface a soft brush was used.
For better results and avoiding imperfections filter paper must not be holed from middle but
rather to be hold from. Care should be taken that creasing and folding of filter paper prior to
use can affect results. Prior to use Filter papers were desiccated to remove humidity. All the
filter papers to be used were numbered and marked and weighed.All the process was recorded
with numbers time dated etc.

13
3.1.5. INSTALLATION OF FILTER.
Great care should be taken that filter should only be installed when the HVS is off. Further filter
should be kept on such a position that its rough side is always up to maximizing its collection
property. Filter was properly installed and HVS was on prior installing its back cover to avoid
any outer leakage. Tightening the cover care must be taken no to damage the rubber edging.
Some talcum powder to the rubber edging is also advisable to avoid sticking of filter.

3.1.6. PRECAUTIONS TO BE FOLLOWED DURING ANALYSIS.

1. Neat and clean Glassware must be used for analysis.
2. Fresh chemicals must be used to get correct results.
3. Before mixing Substances,must be brought to level temperature.
4. Tightened bottle should be used for Substances
5. Chemicals must be stored in ambered bottles away from taking care of temperature
and light
6. Chemical prepared should be kept in bottle
7. Analytical grade must be used for reagent to monitor air pollution
8. Spectrometer should be used calibrated and balanced for better performance
9. Desiccant of desiccators must be renewed at steady breaks
10. To way chemical glazed paper must be use
11. As per standard procedures desiccated chemical must be used.

3.2.HEALTH ASSESSMENT:
To conduct Health assessment of stone crusher workers two steps were taken i) clinical
examination ii) pulmonary function examination. Pulmonary function test were conducted
through handy data logging spirometer (MIR SPIROBANK Model, A23 made in Italy) according
to procedures of the American Thoracic Society (ATS 1991). Pulmonary function assessment
was based on values of forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume at the end of 1s
(FEV1) and peak expiratory flow rate PEF). All workers underwent an anthropometric
assessment i-e height and weight. After fixing a nose clip the test was executed in a seating
position. A complete flow volume circle was gained from the spirometer. The best values of

14
PEF, FVC & FEV1 from three tries were obtained and used for analysis.

3.2.2. PULMONARY FUNCTION TEST

a. Spirometry of Stone Crusher Workers

Spirometric measurement (Pulmonary function test) was carried out for measuring lung
function volume of 177 stone crusher workers through Spirometer and to analyze the factors
affecting them. FVC and FEV1 were measured to find out the ratio FEV1/FVC. In the normal
person the ratio is about eighty %.However in airway blockade this value has decreased to 47
%.In serious airway impediment this reduces to 20 %.The lung function parameters were
measured with respect to age, sex and exposure duration which are presented in following
tables. Values obtained during the spirometry and lungs function tests were matched with
standards obtained for the control.group. In determining working condition of lungs Pulmonary
Function Test is main step because it reveals:
i. Amount of air volume inhaled and exhaled in lungs.
ii. Speed of the air exhaled and inhaled.
iii. How rigid are the lungs and chest wall - a question about compliance
iv. The dispersion features of the membrane due to which the gases fluctuate
v. In what way the lungs answer to chest corporeal

15
 Fig. 3.2 spirometer

b. Radiology

The chest X-ray of some workers working from more than ten years and was done to find out
the effect of silica dust on lungs.

Fig.3.3 Chest X ray (radiology)

16
 CHAPTER 04

RESULTS AND DISCUSSIONS

4.1.1. INTRODUCTION

This work focuses on the risk management and analysis of silica dust hazards in local stone
crusher industry.Effects of different parameters were studied associated with the stone
crushing industry and effect of dust particle especially silica was studied on the health of
workers associated with stone crushing processes. For this purpose 9 different sites were
selected at 6 districts of the province and prominent stone crushing plants employing 157
workers were chosen. Different areas like amount of particle produced as dust, its silica
component, and workers health condition i-e lever function information, workers x- ray studies
were collected through difference tests and analyzed.
Table 4.1 shows list of stone crushers selected for this study.

4.1.2. STONE CRUSHING INDUSTRY IN KPK AND FACTUAL POSITION

Stone crushing industry in Pakistan is a small-scale industrial sector. In most of the stone
crushers almost all of the operations are performed manually by the labour. Locally designed
crushing units conventional in nature haveso many technical lacunae in its design, operation
and layout. To convert hard rocks to small pebbles and even sandy particles involves series
mechanical and physical operations. These processes crushing, screening, conveying and other
mechanical and non-mechanical transfer operations.

Large pieces of natural stones rocks are are transported to thestone crusherby different means
of transportation including tractor trolleys, dumpers, trucks etc. off loaded stone pieces are
then charged in to the stone crusher for crushing operation. Workers are been assigned
different working duties on the nature of work and these workers are uncovered to different
silica dust ofvarious concentrations. Labourers working in these stone crushers are mostly

17
illiterate and belong to rural and economically backward areas. These workers are compelled to
work in venerable situation because of less employment opportunities in these rural areas and
even stone crusher like activity means a lot to these economically poor workers because it
carries opportunities of earning in rural areas.

Routine work of stone crushers start early in the morning. The work of labourers in these units
mainly involves breaking, carrying and loading -unloading stones. The crusher labours work in
the open sites without any shelter whether in the hot sun, shivering cold or rains. Both rain and
sun are a curse to the workers. Poor and financially weak workers are not provided with proper
health and safety facilities they work in vulnerable conditions. Pertinent to mention here that
most of the stone crushing factories are not covered under the KPK Factories Act 2013, it means
they are not covered under those regulation that guarantee implementation of health and
safety provision in the province.

Fig 4.1; view of stone crushing process

18
4.1.3. SELECTION OF SITES FOR RESEARCH

List of stone crushers was collected from Directorate of Industries Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
Directorate of Industries issues NOC for establishment of Stone Crushers in the province.
However amongst the entire following list was selected for research work. Table 4.2 indicates
the name and necessary information. For purpose of this study all stone crushers P1-P9 were
divided in 3 clusters (P1-P3), (P4-P6) and (P7-P9).

S.NO Name of stone crusher Nature of work Location No of

workers

1 Peer zada stone crusher (P1) Stone crushing Jindi charsadda 15

2 Majees stone crusher(P2) Stone crushing Peshawar 20

3 Masam Stone crusher(P3) Stone crushing Peshawar 16

4 Qayum stone crusher (P4) Stone crushing Kohat 09

5 Kohat cement factory (P5) Cement MFG Kohat 38

6 Qazi Stone crushing(P6) Stone crushing Karak 20

7 Sheikh Badin stone crusher(P7) Stone crushing Bannu 08

8 AKB Stone crusher(P8) Stone crushing Bannu 08

9 Lucky cement factory (P9) Cement mfg Lakki marwat 43

Table 4.1list of stone crushers and cement factories selected for study.

4.2. HEALTH EFFECT OF DUST & MEDICAL INVESTIGATIONS OF WORKERS

Stone crushing industry in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is an important labour intensive industry

engaged in crushing hard rock stone into gravels of dissimilar sizes used as construction of
roads, buildings, dames etc. Stone crushing in those areas where this study was conducted is
one of the main economic activities that engaged many people. During the process of stone

19
crushing fine powdery fugitive dust is emitted. These substantial fugitive dust emissions pollute
the ambient air quality and surrounding environment. Silica dust is not only harmful to human
health and local agricultural farm but it adversely affect the environment in local areas and
reduce visibility. Air born Silica from stone crushingunits causes serious lungs diseases like
silicosis, cancer, Tuberculosis (TB) etc.
Workers working in environment where they are occupationally exposed to respirable
crystalline silica are in danger and vulnerable to serious but preventable health hazard. The
objective of the study to understand silica dust hazard in local stone crushers. Therefore to
investigate stone crushers dust effect on workers health, A detailed health impact survey of
stone crusher workers, working at stone crushers P1-P9 was conducted with the help of
Department of Health Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Health survey like

1. General clinical examination,

2. Spirometric measurements (Pulmonary Function Test)
3. Chest Radiographs(chest X-ray)
Were conducted to see evidences of respiratory damages and infections in lungs. The long term
exposure of workers to silica dust causes silicosis, the most frequently occurring
pneumoconiosis.

4.2.1. GENERAL EXAMINATION

Medical doctor nominated by Health Deptt KPK review all the workers under study with
physical appearance for signs of any potential conditions. Hw checked different parts of
workersbody that could visually indicate any existing health issues. This includes examining the
following:

Head
Eyes
Chest
Abdomen

20
 Musculoskeletal system, such as your hands and wrists
Nervous system functions, such as speech and walking

4.2.2. SPIROMETRIC MEASUREMENTS (PULMONARY FUNCTION TEST)

Spirometric measurement (Pulmonary function test) was carried out for measuring lung
function volume of stone crusher workers through Spirometer and to analyze the factors
affecting them. Values of FVC and FEV1 were measured to find out the ratio FEV1/FVC. For this
purpose workers were divided in grouped with respect to ages and were group inyears in
categories <25, 25-35, 35-45 and >45. However workers of above category of ages were
examined cluster wise i- e (P1-P3), (P4-P6) and (P7-P9).
In the normal humans the ratio of FEV1/FVC is 80 %.However for those individuals having
airway obstruction this value decreases to 47 %.In serious airway obstruction this reduces to 20
%.The lung function parameters were measured in relation to age, sex and duration of
exposure which are presented in following tables:

No. of FEV1/FVC
Study area Age group workers FEV1 (lit.) FVC (lit) %
<25 10 2.280.52 3.300.20 69-78
Peshawar 25-35 16 2.300.20 3.400.18 67-69
Charsadda 35-40 13 2.100.87 3.310.98 63-72
(P1-P3) >45 12 1.970.99 3.500.11 56-63
<25 23 2.500.73 3.350.45 74-79
25-35 15 2.300.40 3.400.30 67-72
Kohat
Karak 35-40 16 2.070.37 3.030.35 68-70
(P4-P6) >45 13 1.930.97 3.290.20 58-61
<25 14 2.200.73 3.350.70 65-73
Bannu 25-35 16 2.000.30 3.300.40 60-67
Lakki Marwat 35-45 16 1.700.97 3.250.50 52-56
(P7-P9) >45 13 1.500.83 3.200.30 46-55

Table 4.2: Lung Function Parameters of Stone Crusher workers according to Age Group

21
 0.9
0.8
0.7
FEV1/FVC% 0.6
0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
0
<25 25-35 35-45 >45
Age group

Fig. 4.2 FEV1/FVC % V/S age group for cluster 1

0.9
0.8
0.7
0.6
FEV1/FVC%

0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
0
<25 25-35 35-45 >45
Age group

Fig 4.3 FEV1/FVC % V/S age group for cluster 2

22
 0.9
0.8
0.7
0.6
FEV1/FVC%

0.5
0.4
0.3
0.2
0.1
0
<25 25-35 35-45 >45
Age group

Fig 4.4 FEV1/FVC % V/S age group for cluster 3

Plots b/w age groups and FEV1/FVC % for cluster 1 and 2 are almost at the similar positions
whereas looking at the plot for cluster 3 shows that that workers of age group >45 are more in
vulnerable position and their spirometry indicates little bit more damage. The same fact is also
supported by suggestion of Doctors who suggested them with proper treatment

Duration of No. of
Study area exposure workers FEV1 (lit.) FVC (lit.) FEV1/FVC %
Peshawar
Charsadda
(cluster1) 8-12 32 2.200.52 3.180.20 69-78
>12 19 1.971.10 3.500.31 56-63
Kohat 8-12 47 2.370.73 3.350.45 70-79
karak
(cluster2) 20
>12 1.931.07 3.290.03 58-68
Bannu Lakki 8-12 37 2.300.73 3.400.70 67-73
Marwat
(Cluster3)
>12 22 1.50 0.70 3.20 0.25 46-52

Table 4.3: Lung Function Parameters of Stone Crusher workers: According to Duration of Exposure

23
 90

80

70

60
FEV1/FVC %

50

40

30

20

10

0
8 to 12 hrs >12 hrs
working time

Fig4.5 Lung Function Parameters of Stone Crusher workers: According to Duration of Exposure

4.2.3. CHEST RADIOGRAPHS (CHEST X-RAY)

To investigate workers chest function chest radio graph (chest Xray) tests of selected worker
from all clusters were taken. 20 workers from cluster 1, 19 from cluster 2 and 16 from cluster 3
of those workers, working from more than ten years and was done to find out the effect of
silica dust on lungs. All cases were generally checked up, suspected to have damaged lungs by
the chest physicians at the clinic and were referred for chest X-ray at respective DHQ hospitals.
The X-rays were examined independently by a radiologist and a chest physician. The X-rays
reports shows that 25% of workers of cluster1, 18% of cluster2 and 23% of cluster 3 are having
abnormal radiograph results, and these were interpreted as positive. Study populations were
diagnosed to have damaged lungs and the workers were suggested for proper medical
treatment and rest.

24
S.No Study area Number of Normal Abnormal %abnormal
workers radiological radiological radiological
results results results
1 Cluster 1 (P1-P3) 20 16 4 25%

2 Cluster 2 (P4-P6) 19 16 3 18%

3 Cluster 3 (P7-P9) 16 13 3 23%

Table 4.4workers x-ray results.

30%

25%
%age abnormal result

20%

15%

10%

5%

0%
cluster 1 cluster 2 cluster 3
cluster

Fig 4.6. Cluster wise %abnormal radiological result

25
 Fig. 4.7 Xray results of some stone crusher workers

4.3 ANALYSIS OF AIR QUALITY

To determine air quality and amount of silica content as suspended solid High Volume Sampler
was used at all sites (P1-P9), provided by EPA Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

4.3.1. DATA EXTRACTED FROM HIGH VOLUME SAMPLER

Air quality of stone crushing units and surrounding was monitored for 27 days 3 days each
across the 9 stone crushers. High volume sampler (HVS) was installed at these selected sites
and data was collected on 24 hours basis for 3 days each. Among the 9 Sampling stations, the
average values of PM10&TSP, concentrations were found. The relation of PM 10/TSP at these
9 sites was also calculated. It came under observation that during daytime when the stone
crushers were working with full swing for 8 hours (8 a.m.4 p.m.) TSP(total suspended solid)
.concentrations was found to be 34 times greater than that of the succeeding 8 hours (4
p.m.12 p.m.) When there was no crushing process going on rather transportation of

26
crushed and raw material was carried and taken away from stone crusher. At night time (12
p.m.8 a.m.) when both the process crushing and transportation were abandoned TSP
concentration measured was found to be 1/71/8 that of measured between 8 a.m.4
p.m. The data collected through HVS was also correlated with the medical results obtained at
these sites that indicate different effects of inhaling crystalline silica have different medical
effects in humans now. Various medical problems in humans especially coming across the
dusty environment are based upon the size of the particle they inhale specific position where
particle will come to rest in the respiratory tract the when inhaled. Fine small dust particles
as smaller as ~10 micrometers or less (PM10) can penetrate deeper into the lungs such as
the bronchioles or alveoli because of their size. On the other hand, particles <2.5m, PM2.5,
go deeper into the gas interchange sections of the lung, similarly finest particles (<100
nanometers)may pass through the lungs to disturb other organs. Although most of the
workers working at these stone crushers appeared normal in the physical,
medicalexamination, however some of the workers even complained for having continuous
cough difficulty in breathing and tightness of chest.

4.3.2. PAK-EPA AMBIENT AIR STANDARDS

Pak EPA has set certain quality standard for ambient air. Which are as under

27
Table4.5 Pak EPA ambient air quality standards

28
S.N Sampling TSP (g/m3) PM10 (g/m3)
location

Min Max Avg Min Max Avg PM10/TSP (%)

1. P1 454 988 721 205 919 562 77.9

2. P2 412 941 677 189 874 536 79.2
3. P3 384 792 588 156 654 405 68.9
4. P4 275 721 570 132 432 447 78.4
5 P5 347 811 579 190 721 455 78.5
6 P6 298 737 517 143 640 391 75.6
7 P7 444 838 641 197 711 454 70.8
8 P8 392 750 571 201 626 413 72.3
9 P9 427 845 636 170 830 500 78.6

Table-4.6: Total Suspended and Respirable Particulate Matter Concentration

80

78

76

74
PM10/TSP (%)

72

70

68

66

64

62
P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 P7 P8 P9
Stone Crushers

Fig 4.8 Variation of PM10/TSP% at stone crushers

29
4.3.2. CLUSTER WISE COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF PARTICULATE MATTER CONCENTRATION AND
MEDICAL RESULTS.

To see effect of particulate matter and PM10 on workers health and resultant health effect cluster
wise analysis was done.

a. Analysis at cluster 1 (P1-P3)

Cluster X ray Avg

FEV1/ FEVC%
results PM10/TSP
<25 yrs 25-35 yrs 35-40 yrs > 45 yrs
(%)

1
(P1-P3) 25% 69-78 67-69 63-72 56-63 75.3

Table 4.7 results analysis of cluster 1

b. Analysis at cluster 2 (P4-P6)

Cluster X ray Avg

FEV1/ FEVC%
results PM10/TSP
<25 yrs 25-35 yrs 35-40 yrs > 45 yrs
(%)
2
(P4-P6) 18% 64-79 67-72 68-70 58-61 77.5

Table 4.8 Results analysis of cluster 2

30
c. Analysis at cluster 3 (P7-P9)

Cluster X ray Avg

FEV1/ FEVC%
results PM10/TSP
<25 yrs 25-35 yrs 35-40 yrs > 45 yrs
(%)
3
(P7-P9) 23% 65-73 60-76 52-56 46-55 73.9

Table 4.9 Results analysis of cluster 3

31
CONCLUSIONS

During crushing activities in stone crushers, fine inhalable dust particles are produced. The TSP
and PM10 concentration (24 hour average) at all 9 stone crushers exceeded the standard values
recommended by Pak EPA, at all sampling station. Even though particulate matter contains only
a minor portion of the total suspended.particulate but its effect can be suspiciously large. The
FVC, FEV1 values observed in worker were less than the approximate values. Dust inhaled by
workers containing high percentage of silica,goes deeper in respiratory tract leading to cough
and silicosis problem. Long time exposure to dust due to stone crushing and other dust
producing activities can increase the chances of respiratory problems and decreased lung
function.
During this study we studied medical results including spirometery of workers indicates that
workers who are in the age of <25 have FEV/FVC value in range of 64-79 whereas workers of
age group >45 years age have FEV/FVC1 value in the range of 46-63 for all clusters which clearly
indicates that workers lungs in older age are more damaged by the dusty environment and they
are more vulnerable to lungs diseases.
In our preliminary data obtained at all the three clusters, we saw that workers at cluster 1 were
rarely using the dust mask and 40% workers at cluster 2 were properly using dust mask when
we analyzed Xray results obtained indicates that %age abnormal value of cluster 1 is slightly
high whereas %age abnormal value of cluster 2 is low as compared to cluster 1 and cluster 3.
Thus we can conclude that using of mask can reduce lungs damage and resultant diseases.
It came under observations that duringdaytime when the stone crushers were working for 8
hours time (8 a.m.4 p.m.) TSP (total suspended particles) concentrations were found to be 3
4 times greater than the succeeding 8 hours (4 p.m.12 p.m.) When crushing activity was
abandoned but transportation of raw material and crushed material was carried in and taken
out. However during the night times (12 p.m.8 a.m.) both the crushing and transportation
processes were not in process amount of TSP was recorded 1/8 as that of both the succeeding
shifts. Thus we can conclude that stone crusher ambient air suspended solid content is high

32
during the crushing and transportation activities but during the night time when there is no
activity and air is moist suspended solid particle are less.
Stone Crushing industry is one of the informal sectors which can create more employment
opportunities. It can improve infrastructure facilities at lower cost of production. In the study it
was observed that in stone crushing industry health challenges are more due to unhealthy
process and non-provision of proper PPEs. Workers need more facilities. Infrastructure
facilities are in poor condition in the study areas. On regulation side it was also observed that
most of the stone crushers are not cover under any health and safety law. Government should
make favorable changes law and should formulate laws for strict implementation in stone
crushers.

33
RECOMMENDATIONS

On the basis of this research work I would recommend the following actions to the stone
crusher owners to adoptto minimize exposures to respirable.CrystallineSilicaso that to prevent
resultant disease in stone crusher workers:

1. Legal coverage to stone crusher workers; Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Factories 2013 is the
only law applicable in the province to cater OSH issues related to manufacturing
process, applicable to those processes employing 10 or more workers however as most
of stone crushers employee less than ten workers therefore almost 98% of stone
crushers are not covered under this law. Govt of KPK must formulate an exclusive law on
OSH covering stone crushers.

2. Provision of PPES To Workers: - The workers safety should be mandatory on the

owners of stone crushing units. Personal protective equipments PPEs should be
provided to workers by Stone Crushing Units like masks, helmets, Gloves, safety belt etc.
Every worker should be secured by insurance. Sufficient compensation should be paid to
the victims.

3. Dust Control: - To reduce effect respirable dust in stone crusher, using engineering
controls is recommended e.g water spray systems. Water spray systems square
measure usually thought to be the less costly different. However, further measures may
additionally be needed to adequately lower silica exposure levels. Water spray
techniques embody the applying of water, surfactants or foam at the device, conveyor
feed and at alternative discharge points. Systems could also be controlled or have
confidence obtainable water pressure. Basic systems while not pressurization and
chemical additives square measure effective at considerably reducing respirable silica.
4. Awareness of workers: - it is noticed during the study that most of the workers working
in stone crushing industry are either illetrate or less educated unaware of the health
hazards of respirable silica dust. It is recommended that workers working stone crusher

34
 must be educated regarding dust and other hazard and Provide workers with training
that includes information about health effects, work practices, and protective
equipment for respirable crystalline silica. By doing so 50% of respirable silica dust
hazards can be reduced.

5. Training of workers: the Occupiers shall arrange for suitable training in observing Safety
& Health precaution in the form of awareness training program.Employee training
should be designed to influence employees to comply with appropriate workpractices. A
positive KAP (Knowledge, Attitude &Participation) of the employees should be
madethrough the process of health awareness for thepromotion and maintenance of
the highest degree ofPhysical, Mental and Social well-being. Such trainingshould be
conducted for all employees periodically.

6. Periodic medical examination of workers: - it is recommended that workers must be

investigated periodically for their respiratory and lungs functions test and necessary
medical examination must be carried out time to time to see effect of respirable silica
dust in dusty environment and to suggest medical treatment accordingly.

7. Safety of nearby residents;Proper action is to be taken to prevent dust exposureof

other residents particularly nearby residents of the stone crushers because they are
inhaling air contaminated with dust particles vulnerable to pulmonary diseases.

8. Follow up of the study;The workers of this study especially those who showed
abnormal signs & symptoms as well as abnormal PFT & radiological findings should be
continuously monitored. All the workers of the Stone crushing Units who are potentially
exposed to the hazardous free silica dust should be monitored regularly at periodic
intervals for the detection of anytoxic effect in them. Further a follow up study should
be done after the implementation of recommendations to assess the existing
conditions.

35
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