how we can work together to prevent silicosis
As members of a shared creative space, we all play a vital role in keeping our studio safe. Pottery and ceramics work often involves materials like clay, glazes, and dry trimming dusts that contain crystalline silica—a known cause of silicosis when inhaled over time.
At á la mud, the safety of our members is not just a priority—it’s a core value that informs everything we do. From the policies we implement to the training we provide, we are deeply committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of every individual we serve. Thankfully, this condition is entirely preventable if we learn how to do so.
What Is Silicosis?
Silicosis is a progressive, incurable lung disease resulting from long-term exposure to crystalline silica dust. The tiny particles, when inhaled, embed themselves deep in the lungs and cause inflammation, scarring (fibrosis), and in severe cases, respiratory failure.
🔬 The World Health Organization classifies crystalline silica as a Group 1 carcinogen, meaning it is known to cause cancer in humans (WHO, 2021).
Key symptoms include: persistent cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, and chest pain.
Why This Matters to Us
Ceramics studios are environments where silica exposure can occur daily—even from seemingly harmless activities like sweeping, sanding, or mixing powdered glazes.
📊 According to Safe Work Australia, over 350,000 Australian workers are currently at risk of silica exposure, and cases of accelerated silicosis are rising dramatically, particularly in trades and creative industries (Safe Work Australia, 2023).
Recognizing this risk, we’ve implemented training and practices to reduce exposure and raise awareness.
The á la mud Approach to Silica Safety
The á la mud team and members receive mandatory training on silica hazards and safe work practices. These include:
1. Keep Dust to a Minimum
Always clean with a wet mop or HEPA vacuum—never dry sweep or use compressed air, which can launch silica dust into the air.
OSHA states that “dry sweeping should be avoided where silica dust is present” (OSHA, 2024).
Wipe down surfaces and tools regularly with a damp cloth.
Store dry materials (like powdered glazes) in sealed containers and label them clearly.
2. Practice Wet Working Techniques
Work with clay while it’s moist, and avoid sanding or trimming dry greenware unless absolutely necessary.
The CDC recommends “wet methods whenever feasible to reduce dust generation” in pottery and ceramics work (CDC/NIOSH, 2022).
No dry sanding or trimming indoors.
3. Wear Appropriate PPE
Use a NIOSH-approved N95 respirator or better when handling dusty materials, especially dry glaze mixes.
N95 respirators filter at least 95% of airborne particles, including silica dust (NIOSH, 2019).
Wear protective clothing like aprons that can be laundered separately to avoid spreading dust at home.
4. Stay Informed and Speak Up
Participate in studio safety briefings and silica awareness training.
If you notice unsafe practices, like dry sweeping, kindly remind others or report it to studio staff.
A 2023 report by the Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists found that peer reminders and a safety-first culture were among the most effective behavior-change tools in shared studios (AIOH, 2023).
5. Label, Share, and Store Materials Responsibly
Don’t leave powders, broken bisqueware, or trimmings lying around—dispose of them properly.
WorkSafe Victoria notes that “dry ceramic waste and glazes can continue to emit respirable silica if not managed” (WorkSafe Vic, 2023).
6. Ventilation and Air Quality
Fortunately, our studio is equipped with two large garage doors, one on either side, that provide excellent through-and-through ventilation.
Good airflow and local exhaust ventilation reduce airborne silica levels by up to 95% (UC Berkeley LOHP, 2020).
Our Commitment as a Community
We all share this space—and we all breathe the same air. That’s why preventing silicosis isn’t just a personal responsibility, it’s a collective effort. Together, we can create an environment where creativity thrives without compromising health.
If you ever have questions about safe practices or want to suggest improvements, reach out to studio leadership or join our next health and safety meeting.
References
Safe Work Australia. Crystalline Silica and Silicosis. 2023. https://www.safeworkaustralia.gov.au/silica
World Health Organization (IARC). Silica Dust – Carcinogenic Risks. 2021. https://www.iarc.who.int/
OSHA. Occupational Exposure to Respirable Crystalline Silica. 2024. https://www.osha.gov/silica-crystalline
CDC/NIOSH. NIOSH Silica Resources. 2022. https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/topics/silica/
WorkSafe Victoria. Crystalline Silica – Hazard Guide. 2023. https://www.worksafe.vic.gov.au/crystalline-silica
UC Berkeley Labor Occupational Health Program. Silica in the Workplace. 2020. https://lohp.berkeley.edu/
Australian Institute of Occupational Hygienists (AIOH). Silica Risk Management for Artists. 2023. https://www.aioh.org.au/