OT: Chemicals, Particulates and Lung Health
- To: i*@onelist.com
- Subject: OT: Chemicals, Particulates and Lung Health
- From: H*@aol.com
- Date: Thu, 3 Sep 1998 14:31:17 EDT
From: HIPSource@aol.com
In a message dated 98-09-03 14:11:32 EDT, you write:
<< On another note, Linda bought a 25 pound bag of Diatamasious (sp?) earth to
use around the garden for insect control (an organic method?). We dumped most
of it in the trash last week because after Linda started spreading it she
developed nose bleed, watering eyes and a very sore throat. I assume this is
because of the silica. Is this the problem? Should people using this method
also wear protection as if they were using a chemical? If so, these things
should be made known. Anyone else have problems with D. earth? >>
Extreme precautions must be taken when working with any fine particulate
matter, including diatomaceous earth, which is the pulverized hard matter of
minute sea creatures. The danger in inhalation or contact with the mucus
membranes from this or any other fine particulate matter may be both
physical-- rasping and irritation resulting in the possibility of infection
and scarring-- or chemical, which may include fungi and bacteria. When working
with any fine matter you should use a protective mask designed for the purpose
and available from hardware stores. A cheaper mask designed to filter fumes
and pollen is not adequate. The dangers from inhaling asbestos, fibreglass
filaments, coal dust, and dried poultry manure are well known, but ANY fine
particulate matter may pose a severe threat to your health.
For more information on lung health issues contact your local American Lung
Association at 1-800-LUNG-USA.
Henry Hall
American Lung Association of Virginia
(Anner's Husband)
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