Silicosis has become a growing health and safety concern for the industrial sector; however, knowing how to prevent silica dust exposure is a more complicated issue. To make understanding silicosis easier, we’ve done some research into silica dust and created this guide on how you can reduce exposure in your workplace.
Silica is a naturally occurring substance that can be found in varying amounts in sand, clay, gravel and some rocks and stones. Also known as ‘quartz’, silica is commonly found on construction sites, due to its prevalence in building materials such as concrete, tiles, mortar and bricks.
Carrying out everyday construction tasks such as grinding, drilling, and cutting generates dust, which can easily be inhaled if the dust is fine enough. Respirable crystalline silica (RCS) – also known as silica dust – can get deep into the lungs when breathed in, which, over time, can lead to lung cancer or other serious respiratory diseases.
Wear suitable workwear in environments with the risk of silica exposure. One of the most effective ways of minimizing silica dust exposure is to provide your workers with personal protective equipment (PPE), such as respirators that cover the nose and mouth.
Keeping equipment clean in workplaces with high levels of silica Contamination can be a significant cause of concern in these environments. Workwear can be contaminated by silica dust – which, in some cases, is so fine that it can barely be seen – so it should always be washed separately.
Use engineered controls for dust suppression Using local exhaust ventilation (LEV), which removes dust at its point of origin so that it doesn’t enter the air, can be a very effective form of dust suppression, as can dust containment systems which continuously remove and filter the contaminated air.
The dust monitor system from Nome Services can help you keep track of the dust levels in your area and take steps to reduce them. This system is easy to use and can be installed in minutes. It’s a great way to keep safe from the harmful effects of dust.
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