Canadian Centre for Occupational Health and Safety/Centre canadien d'hygi¸ne et de sˇcuritˇ au travail
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> 3-First Aid for Exposure to Quartz Silica

 

What should I do if someone becomes ill from breathing quartz silica?
What do I do if someone gets quartz silica on their skin?
What do I do if someone gets quartz silica in their eyes?
What do I do if someone swallows quartz silica?
Is there anything else I need to know about first aid?


What should I do if someone becomes ill from breathing quartz silica?

Cancer hazard. If high airborne concentrations are present, take proper precautions to ensure your own safety before attempting a rescue (e.g. wear appropriate protective equipment). If symptoms are experienced, remove source of contamination or have victim move to fresh air. Obtain medical advice.


What do I do if someone gets quartz silica on their skin?

No health effects are expected. If irritation does occur, flush with lukewarm, gently flowing water for 5 minutes or until the chemical is removed.


What do I do if someone gets quartz silica in their eyes?

Do not allow victim to rub eye(s). Let the eye(s) water naturally for a few minutes. Have victim look right and left, and then up and down. If particle/dust does not dislodge, flush with lukewarm, gently flowing water for 5 minutes or until particle/dust is removed, while holding the eyelid(s) open. If irritation persists, obtain medical attention. DO NOT attempt to manually remove anything stuck to the eye(s).


What do I do if someone swallows quartz silica?

No health effects are expected. If irritation or discomfort occurs, obtain medical advice.


Is there anything else I need to know about first aid?

All first aid procedures should be periodically reviewed by a doctor familiar with the material and its condition of use in the workplace.


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Document last updated on December 22, 1997


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