Abstract

Workplaces are making increasing use of talc, vermiculite and other commercial products containing tremolite. This natural contaminant can be in fibrous form ("asbestiform"), or in fragment, plate or needle form ("non-asbestiform"). This can result in different interpretations regarding its mineralogical nature, its laboratory analysis, its toxicity and, as a result, applicable regulations and how to protect workers. At the CSST’s request, the researchers will produce a critical summary of the literature to clarify the state of knowledge about tremolite and its health and safety effects. They will then disseminate their research results using tools adapted to the Québec context, thus facilitating interventions to prevent occupational diseases.