Silicosis

Slate Pencil Industry

Slate pencil cutting is a cottage type of industry, located in the Mandsaur district of M.P. Slate pencils are made by cutting slate stone on a circular electric saw and during this process, clouds of dust are generated pervading the work environment. An environmental and epidemiological study consisting of clinical examination, pulmonary function test, chest X-ray and laboratory investigations, carried out in  slate pencil workers revealed following results:

The air borne free silica dust levels were several times higher than the limits prescribed under the Factories Act. Radiological evidence of silicosis was observed in 54.6% slate pencil workers and progressive massive fibrosis.

(PMF) was found in 17.7% slate pencil workers. About 50% of the workers suffering from silicosis were below 25 years of age and had worked for less than 7 years. Immunological studies among workers having silicosis showed increase in the levels of serum IgG and serum IgM. Pulmonary function test showed high prevalence of obstructive type abnormality and these abnormalities were seen even in workers with normal chest radiograph. 

Follow up examination of these workers after an interval of sixteen months revealed rapid progression of the disease and it was  related to the stage of silicosis during initial examination. About 4% of the subjects who had  participated in the initial survey died during the intervening  period. Their mean age at the time of death was 34.7 (18‑55)  years and the mean duration of work was 11.75 (3‑20) years. All  the deceased  subjects were male and were suffering from PMF.

Slate Pencil Industry | Agate Industry | Quartz Grinding | Stone Quarries |Mica Processing Industry

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