Kiana Porter

Session Objectives:

1. Understand the health effects of respirable crystalline silica.
2. Review main exposure risks and assess how regulatory requirements and engineering controls address those risks.
3. Identify opportunities to reduce occupational silica exposure using lessons learned from case studies and RHP simulated exposure assessment data.

Topic:

Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) remains a significant occupational health hazard. This presentation covers health effects, exposure factors, regulatory frameworks, and hierarchy of controls related to silica, including why minimum regulatory compliance may be insufficient to adequately protect workers performing high-risk tasks. Drawing upon real-world case studies and an RHP-conducted simulation study evaluating both RCS and titanium dioxide (TiO2) exposures during countertop fabrication, the session will highlight exposure patterns, control effectiveness, implementation challenges, and key lessons learned. Attendees will leave with knowledge of strategies to strengthen their exposure control programs and better protect workers.