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peer-reviewed_article_-_2.docxIARC TO RECLASSIFY SILICA AS GROUP ONE CARCINOGEN
Title: IARC to reclassify silica as Group One carcinogen. Engineering & Mining Journal (00958948), 00958948, Apr97, Vol. 198, Issue 4
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has proposed reclassifying crystalline silica as a "Group One" substance, considered to be a human carcinogen. The recommendation is the result of a 10-7 vote by an IARC working group approving a monograph on silica exposure data and studies of human carcinogenicity, including research involving quarries, granite works, refractories, foundries, ceramic/pottery manufacturing plants, and diatomaceous earth industries.
IARC's working group concluded that "the epidemiological findings support increased lung cancer risks from inhaled crystalline silica (quartz and cristobalite) resulting from occupational exposure. The observed associations could not be explained by confounding or other biases." The working group added that "no association was detected for mesothelimia with biogeneic amorphous silica fibres in the three community-based case controlled studies." In addition, the draft report states that there "is limited evidence in experimental animals for the carcinogenicity of tryidymite."
IARC monographs are not prepared for use as regulatory tools. However, IARC's findings are used by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to determine whether a substance is covered by the agency's Hazard Communication Standard (HCS). The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is also expected to rely upon IARC listings (as well as those in the National Toxicology Program) in its forthcoming HCS, expected to be finalized this year.
The report is expected to be finalized upon publication, which could occur within the first half of 1997. Unless modifications are made to the working group's version, the overall evaluation-"inhaled crystalline silica in the form of quartz or cristobalite from occupational sources is carcinogenic to humans (Group 1)"-should be noted on updated Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for products containing crystalline silica above threshold amount pursuant of OSHA's HCS.
Unlike OHSA and MSHA's mandatory rule-making procedures, IARC meets in secret, does not hold public hearings, and does not permit observers without special permission.
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