Question : Silicosis

Will the Minister of HEALTH AND FAMILY WELFARE be pleased to state:

(a) the details of steps taken to effectively treat and mitigate the disease burden of silicosis in affected areas;

(b) whether the Government plans to create a national programme on elimination of silicosis on the lines of National Tuberculosis Control Programme;

(c) if so, the time by which it is likely to be implemented;

(d) if not, the other measures taken to combat silicosis; and

(e) the recommendations of National Human Rights Commission on aspects of Silicosis?

ANSWER
THE MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND
FAMILY WELFARE
(SMT. ANUPRIYA PATEL)
(a): Study has been undertaken in silicosis affected areas in Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Rajasthan, involved in the fields of slate pencils cutting units, agate grinding units, ceramic and pottery units and stone quarries. Concerned State Labour Departments have been advised to take steps of shifting of smaller cottage units from residential areas to isolated place, use of bag filters to collect dust instead of liberating it in the ambient air, use of good quality face mask by workers & periodical medical check-up.

(b) to (d): Guidelines have been laid for screening and testing of occupational high risk groups including silicosis. Trainings and sensitization have been organised by the States under States’ Programme implementation plan.

(e): In its report on Silicosis, the National Human Rights Commission suggested various changes in the existing legislations to effectively enforce the provisions of several labour laws for ensuring welfare and protection of workers.