Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) has been the subject of intense regulatory attention in NSW since the epidemic of silicosis among engineered stone workers came to national attention. SafeWork NSW has tightened controls, increased inspections, and banned certain high-risk engineered stone products. But the focus has predominantly been on lung disease,the eye effects of chronic silica and construction dust exposure receive far less attention.
How Construction Dust Affects the Eyes
The ocular surface,the cornea and conjunctiva,is a continuous mucous membrane exposed to the environment with every blink. In clean office conditions, the tear film manages environmental particles effectively. In high-dust construction environments, this system is overwhelmed.
- Mechanical irritation: Fine particles abrade the conjunctival surface with every blink, causing chronic low-grade inflammation, redness, and discomfort
- Tear film disruption: Dust particles alter the composition of the tear film, reducing its protective function and accelerating evaporative dry eye
- Chronic conjunctivitis: Persistent dust exposure causes chronic conjunctival inflammation, leading to redness and discharge that many workers simply accept as normal
- Increased infection risk: Disrupted surface integrity and inflammation increase susceptibility to bacterial and viral eye infections
- Pterygium formation: Chronic UV and dust exposure are both risk factors for pterygium,a benign but vision-affecting growth of tissue across the corneal surface. Outdoor construction workers have among the highest rates of pterygium in Australia.
Silica-Specific Concerns
Crystalline silica particles are particularly sharp at the microscopic level. While the evidence for silica causing specific ocular pathology (beyond the general effects of dust) is still developing, there is reasonable concern that high-RCS environments cause greater corneal surface damage than equivalent concentrations of non-crystalline dust.
Protection and Management
- Wear AS/NZS 1337-rated dust goggles (not open-frame safety glasses) in high-dust environments
- Use preservative-free lubricating eye drops at end of shift to flush residual particles
- Annual eye exams to monitor for early pterygium, chronic conjunctival changes, and dry eye disease
- Report persistent redness, discharge, or irritation,these are not things to tolerate as "normal for site work"
Annual eye health check for construction workers
Prime Optometrists Auburn · (02) 9761 0005 · Bulk billing available with Medicare card