In recent years, the dust topic has gathered more momentum and interest in the construction industry. Aside from being extremely messy and uncomfortable to work with, construction dust can cause significant harm to workers’ health.
Many thanks to Walid Hussain, National Tool Hire Manager at Hilti GB Ltd for providing the following helpful information.
The HSE estimates that dust was responsible for the death of over 500 construction workers in 2005. In addition to the risks from lung cancer, silica is also linked to other serious lung diseases including silicosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. As a result the HSE has increased site inspections, prohibitions, warnings and has even actioned site closures to raise awareness of the risks of silica exposure.
We are therefore continually looking for ways to improve on-site health and safety as well as increase productivity. In addition to the health risks, dust also has the potential to damage equipment and material, clogging up motors resulting in costly repairs.