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MANILA, Philippines – Two days after saying that dolomite dust can cause respiratory illness and other health risks, the Department of Health (DOH) now said that visitors to Manila Bay’s “white beach” would not have to worry about.
In a statement Wednesday, DOH said it learned from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) that the “white sand” that would be used to beautify Manila Bay is a type of dolomite that is two to five millimeters or less. 100 times bigger. than dust.
DOH also said that “occupational health and safety standards for workers and precautionary measures to contain possible dust formation” are being applied in the implementation of the multi-million dollar project, citing information obtained from the DENR.
“Therefore, in terms of the general safety of the public who will enjoy the shoreline once it is permitted, DOH ensures that no adverse incidents will occur as a result of this effort,” DOH added.
DOH further clarified that dolomite, in bulk, is not a known health hazard.
But dolomite in powder form, the DOH added, “can cause symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath and coughing, because this is our body’s normal reaction to irritants.”
On Monday, DOH Undersecretary María Rosario Vergeire said that dolomite dust, which comes from crushed rocks, can cause respiratory problems when inhaled, among other health risks.
READ: Take it from DOH – Dolomite dust can cause respiratory problems and other health hazards
DENR Secretary Roy Cimatu, however, insisted the material used was safe, citing medical studies. The dolomite dust that was dumped at the Manila Bay project came from Cebu.
READ: Cimatu insists that dolomite is safe, defends the Manila Bay ‘white sand’ project
“It is not listed by the Mine Safety and Health Association, the Occupational Safety and Health Association, or even the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a carcinogen,” Cimatu said during DENR’s budget deliberation before the committee. of House appropriations.
“What is dangerous are the fine silica quads in some dolomites in the form of dust that is generated during crushing and screening,” he added.
KGA
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