Dust and pneumoconiosis in the South African foundry industry

The objectives of this study were to estimate the extent of occupational health monitoring for dust and pneumoconiosis in the foundry industry and to assess dust levels and the prevalence of pneumoconiosis in a group of foundries. In only 13 (16%) of the 82 foundries that responded to a postal questionnaire were regular periodic full-sized chest radiographs done. Dust levels were measured every 3 years or more frequently in 20 foundries (24%). An uncontrolled dust hazard was evident in all 9 foundries surveyed between 1983 and 1992. The prevalence of silicosis ranged from 0% to 10.3% and increased with duration of service. The study provided convincing evidence of neglect of occupational health by the foundry industry.