OSHA 10 Hour Construction Program Practice Test

Which industries are employees potentially exposed to silica dust?

1. Construction

2. Mining

3. Manufacturing

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

Silica dust is a common hazard in various industries where materials containing crystalline silica are present. Employees are potentially exposed to silica dust in multiple sectors due to the nature of the work and the materials being handled. In the construction industry, activities such as cutting, grinding, and demolishing concrete or masonry produce silica dust. In mining operations, particularly those involving stone, sand, or gravel, workers are at risk when extracting these materials. Similarly, in manufacturing, processes that include silica-based products, like glass production or certain ceramics, also create opportunities for exposure to silica dust. Because of these overlaps and the diverse settings where silica dust is prevalent, it is accurate to state that all the listed industries—construction, mining, and manufacturing—present potential exposure to silica dust for employees. Recognizing this potential is crucial for implementing appropriate safety measures and protective strategies across these sectors.