I would like to know of any harmful effects of Gypsum on health.
In particupar where there is a factory doing such accross from an nursery school (for choldren2 - 5 years old. Thank you.
2006-11-13 05:46:30 · 4 answers · asked by Tom G 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Chemistry
Gypsum, chemically, is not harmful per se. But the dust particles can be very harmful if they are sufficiently small and the air is so full of the dust that the children and everyone else is inhaling. Long term inhalation of small dust particles can, after several years of exposure cause emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder. (C.O.P.D.). Also chronic bronchitis and chroni obstructive bronchitis. Short term exposure can increase a person's susceptibility to colds.
I assume that there is air pollution, because a essentially sealed manufacturing plant would not cause you to pose this question. Google O.S.H.A. and air pollution. Also, google medline and the lung association, etc. There should be a torrent of inforamtion on the subject easily available. Aslo contact your doctor and ask him/her. There are Federal and state laws that cover particulate emissions to the air and also, probably, regulations relating to schools and their equivalents. Those regulations will cover the particle size. (particles under 10 micron), become more dangerous as they lodge in the deepest recessions of the lungs and are the hardest for the body to dislodge. Also, regulations, will address total emissions and particle number per standard amount of air. Contact the local board of health, state health, and also school officials about the problem. You should inquire about organisations that are concerned about such problems such as the lung association etc.
Good luck.
Doc. Dan.
2006-11-13 05:55:03 · answer #1 · answered by Dan S 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hi Tom. Gypsum (calcium sulfate) can cause irritation to the eyes and respiratory tract. So, if this factory is generating particulates of gypsum in the local air, this could cause eye and lung/sinus symptoms in susceptible individuals.
2006-11-13 06:03:34 · answer #2 · answered by Doctor J 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Gypsum itself seems to be noting more than an irritant. If the gypsum contains silica (quartz), that may have long term implications for health.
2006-11-13 05:58:09 · answer #3 · answered by novangelis 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
There is no specific data on health dangers or toxicity for gypsum. It is assumed to have no harmful effects
2006-11-13 05:58:27 · answer #4 · answered by bluebull20 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋