US EPA

1269008 

Technical Report 

Occupational Lung Hazards 

De Lange, LK 

1984 

NIOSH/00145678 

10 

6 

35-36 

Occupational lung hazards are discussed. Pneumoconiosis is discussed. The most common kinds of pneumoconiosis are silicosis and asbestosis. Factors in the development of silicosis are described. These include amount and kind of dust inhaled, amount of free silica (7631869) in the dust, form of the silica, size of the inhaled particles, duration of exposure, the general health of the individual, and the presence or absence of a complicating process such as infection. The action of silica on the lungs is discussed. Asbestosis is considered. Asbestos (1332214) when inhaled induces the formation of fibrous tissue in the lungs of humans and animals. Fibers of asbestos must be present to cause asbestosis. It is concluded that asbestosis is primarily the result of physical irritation of the lung tissue by asbestos fibers, whereas silicosis is caused by chemical action of silica dust. It is suspected that lung cancer may be induced by asbestos. Anthrasilicosis and miscellaneous types of pneumoconiosis are discussed. The effects of inhaling toxic dusts and fumes are considered. Lead (7439921) poisoning is discussed. Inhalation of lead compounds represents the most common route of entry of lead into the body. Beryllium (7440417) pulmonary toxicity is discussed. Metal fume fever is considered. Bacteria and fungal lung infections are discussed. 

DCN-132923; Occupational respiratory disease; Lung function; Dust exposure; Lung fibrosis; Lung burden; Pneumoconiosis; Lung; Lung disorders; Dust analysis; Lung irritants; Occupational exposure