HEALTH & SAFETY


This is produced from the methods and processes that are followed, such as blasting, crushing, sieving, drilling and transporting the material. Silica dust is the main component in sand, but it isn't just the individuals who work in the above industries who are exposed to silica dust. Those who are stone cutters, sandblasters, and glass cutters may also be exposed to silica dust. Prolonged exposure can lead to


lung disease (silicosis) and cause difficulty breathing. it can also cause an increased risk of: • Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)


• Tuberculosis • Autoimmune problems • Kidney Disease


Who is most at risk? Those who are most at risk of being exposed to dust include quarry workers; stone cutters; miners; glass makers; wood workers; construction workers; bakers or caterers. Although anyone who comes into


contact with a process that produces dust is at risk of being exposed to dust hazards. For example, firefighters are at risk of inhaling asbestos dust when attending a scene, or bakers when they are working with flour on a regular basis.


Controlling dust in the workplace There are a few methods that you can utilise to help control dust in your workplace. These can both help your employees and site visitors safe from dust exposure. See if the task can be modified to reduce or avoid dust - Review the process your


employees are currently using, could this be adapted to reduce the amount of dust produced. For example, if you work in construction, you could use a nail gun instead of screws to reduce the amount of dust that's produced. Avoid disturbing dust - You can avoid the amount of airborne dust by not disturbing it while it's on the floor or on surfaces. Especially if there is an excessive amount of dust on the floor and employees are constantly walking through it. Thinking about the cleaning procedure,


do you have cleaners that come in regularly to avoid the build up of dust? Or is there a process your employees are supposed to follow to avoid the build up?


Dust in the Workplace Wear personal protective equipment (PPE). You should ensure that your employees are protected from dust, this includes providing them with effective personal protective equipment. Masks, respiratory protective equipment (RPE), goggles, ear defenders and gloves can help reduce dust exposure and inhalation in dusty environments. Train staff on the dangers around dust.


You should ensure that your teams are aware of the dangers around dust, and how long-term exposure could damage their health. Providing up to date and regular training can help your staff become better equipped to handle dust. There are a few measures that you


can put into place to help protect your employees, such as, installing


GET EXPERT ADVICE At Croner, our Health and Safety experts are on hand 24/7 to help you handle your health and safety issues and concerns. Our experts understand the dangers around dust in the workplace and are ready to help you create a safe work environment for you and your employees. Get in touch with one of our health and safety experts on 0844 561 8133. www.croner.co.uk


dust removal tools like vacuums and local exhaust ventilation systems. If you are trying to reduce dust


on a large scale you could use water sprinklers to suppress dust clouds, and finally, ensure that your employees are using the right tools for the job. Implement effective ventilation -


Effective ventilation will help bring fresh air into your workplace and remove dust and pollutants from the air within your building, making it safer for your employees. You should make sure you're regularly cleaning ventilation systems to ensure they are remaining pollutant free and effective. Clean regularly - Ensuring workspaces


are cleaned regularly can help you to avoid large amounts of dust build ups. This helps you keep on top of the dust management within your site and identify areas that could benefit from additional tools to reduce the dust.


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