• 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

Copyright ©1997-2013 Canadian Centre for Occupational Health & Safety