Free Crystalline Silica

The risk connected with exposure to free crystalline silica in the workplace is considered from a technical and prescriptive angle, in order to present an up-to-date overview on the subject. The first part of this paper analyses the Italian and EU standards situation, as well as current toxicological scene concerning free crystalline silica exposure, particularly with regard to the IARC Classification. Sampling and test methods of free crystalline silica adopted at international level are considered in the second part of the paper. The procedures proposed at EU level aimed at planning and performing an environmental analysis within the workplace are also considered.