Discover the Risks and Prevention of Respirable Crystalline Silica Exposure

In May, it’s time for the course “Respirable Crystalline Silica Exposure in the Occupational Setting – Past and Present Exposures and Health Effects” in Oslo. We asked course leader Merete Bugge about her career in the field of occupational health and her insights about the upcoming course.
Merete Bugge is a medical doctor who has dedicated her career to the field of occupational health. Since completing medical school, she has worked as a physician in occupational health services and has spent the last 24 years at STAMI, the National Institute of Occupational Health in Oslo, Norway.
Bugge’s journey into research began at STAMI, where she pursued specialization in occupational medicine. Her PhD focused on lung diseases in the Norwegian silicon carbide industry, sparking her interest in the effects of dust and particles, such as silicon carbide, asbestos, and quartz.
Respirable crystalline silica is a prevalent exposure in various construction works
Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) is a common occupational hazard globally, causing lung diseases like silicosis and lung cancer, as well as autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis. Despite stricter regulations, RCS remains a major cause of work-related deaths, making awareness crucial for worker safety.
In Norway, RCS is common in construction, such as road building and tunnel digging. Recent studies show that even previously safe exposure levels are risky, leading to health issues like cancer and COPD. As a result, occupational exposure limits are decreasing, highlighting the need for more knowledge about RCS.
About the upcoming course
As the course leader for the upcoming course on Respirable Crystalline Silica Exposure, Bugge emphasizes the importance of understanding this issue in 2025. The course will provide an overview of the history, health effects, and possible mechanisms for disease, followed by different exposure scenarios. The third day will focus on preventive measures, regulations, and research.
Bugge hopes that participants will gain new knowledge and share their experiences in the field. The target groups for this course include researchers, occupational hygienists, medical doctors in occupational medicine, occupational health specialists from various fields, and the labour inspectorate.
Course: Respirable Crystalline Silica Exposure in the Occupational Setting – Past and Present Exposures and Health Effects, 12th – 14th of May 2025, STAMI, Oslo Norway
More information: Course web page | Course registration | Last registration date: 27.3.2025