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Exposure to RCF Dust. Should I worry?
Hello, im looking for some input from some one knowledgeable in asbestos or RCF exposure!
In a current work project, I believe I've been exposed to large quantities of refractory fibers dust (Rescocast 9), for short durations. I'm considering it large quantities as the dust was visible (no sampling data available); however the dust was present in well ventilated area. I'm considering the exposure as short term since the three instances I can account for were less then 10-15 min each within 2 weeks. The job site is extremely dusty as well. During these exposures I was not wearing a respirator. After looking at the safety data sheet I saw that some of the material properties of this refractory are carcinogens. Doing some internet research (trying to filter good and bad data), this material is considered like asbestos; this has me extremely anxious.
After looking up the symptoms of exposure, I've noticed a bit of a scratchy throat and some minor coughing. Not sure if these are actual symptom are just reactions to my anxiety! Could they be acute symptoms? I've scheduled a visit with my GP to discus this exposure and future path forward. I am a healthy male, 30yrs old, non smoker, and no history of cancers in my family.
From all I read, its hard to quantify the effects of the exposure in the early stages but id like to know if this is worth worrying about or if there is anything I should do to monitor my health or even some preventative measure. I'm thinking of asking for pulmonary tests and or Chest X-rays or a CT scan to get a base line.
Thank you guys! Writing this post has helped to get some of this off my chest!
In a current work project, I believe I've been exposed to large quantities of refractory fibers dust (Rescocast 9), for short durations. I'm considering it large quantities as the dust was visible (no sampling data available); however the dust was present in well ventilated area. I'm considering the exposure as short term since the three instances I can account for were less then 10-15 min each within 2 weeks. The job site is extremely dusty as well. During these exposures I was not wearing a respirator. After looking at the safety data sheet I saw that some of the material properties of this refractory are carcinogens. Doing some internet research (trying to filter good and bad data), this material is considered like asbestos; this has me extremely anxious.
After looking up the symptoms of exposure, I've noticed a bit of a scratchy throat and some minor coughing. Not sure if these are actual symptom are just reactions to my anxiety! Could they be acute symptoms? I've scheduled a visit with my GP to discus this exposure and future path forward. I am a healthy male, 30yrs old, non smoker, and no history of cancers in my family.
From all I read, its hard to quantify the effects of the exposure in the early stages but id like to know if this is worth worrying about or if there is anything I should do to monitor my health or even some preventative measure. I'm thinking of asking for pulmonary tests and or Chest X-rays or a CT scan to get a base line.
Thank you guys! Writing this post has helped to get some of this off my chest!
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