Purpose & Who We Are
Dust containing silica is common on construction sites. The illnesses caused by breathing silica dust, such as silicosis, are incurable – but they are preventable. This website is a one-stop source of information to help contractors, workers, and other stakeholders prevent silica-related illnesses.
This site includes the tools and information needed to identify silica hazards, understand the health risk, and find equipment and methods to control the dust. Users will also find information on regulatory and voluntary efforts to minimize silica exposures as well as a central place to share successes and challenges.
Who We Are
CPWR — The Center for Construction Research and Training is an international leader in applied research and training for the construction industry, and serves as the National Construction Center for the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
CPWR conducts research to identify the causes of and solutions for safety and health risks on construction jobs that can lead to injuries, illnesses and fatalities, publicizes the results, encourages the use of solutions, and trains instructors in general and specialized safety and health topics.
In 2010, CPWR, NIOSH and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) formed a Research to Practice (r2p) Working Group to facilitate communication and action on critical safety and health issues facing the construction industry. The Working Group identified silica as a priority area for outreach efforts.
