Construction industry - Silica dust
There is widespread knowledge about the risks of asbestos to construction workers, but did you know that silica is the next biggest health risk to construction workers?
What is Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS)?
- Silica is a naturally occurring mineral found in varying amounts in most rock, sand and clay, as well as products like bricks and concrete
- Silica dust is created during many common construction tasks, such as cutting, sanding or grinding of silica-containing materials like concrete, mortar and sandstone (also known as respirable crystalline silica or RCS)
- Some of this fine dust is small enough to reach deep inside the lungs and causes serious harm to health
The Dangers of Silica Dust - Video
The following video outlines the dangers caused by silica dust. It also provides information on how to protect yourself and your employees from the risks involved:
Health risks
Anyone who breathes in RCS should know the damage it can do to the lungs and air ways. The main RCS dust-related diseases affecting construction workers are:
- Lung cancer
- Silicosis
- Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
- Asthma
The effects of RCS exposure are often not immediately obvious. Unfortunately, by the time it is noticed the total damage done may already be serious and life changing. It may mean permanent disability and early death.
Controls
- a COSHH assessment should be carried out before you start any work:
- use on-tool water suppression, dust extraction or exhaust ventilation to reduce the amount of dust to a minimum
- never dry sweep - consider using a vacuum with a HEPA filter or damping down the area
- wear appropriate PPE and RPE (dust masks) - you must be clean-shaven and be face fit tested for an FFP3 rated mask
- if there are reasons for having a beard (e.g. for religious reasons), alternative forms of Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE), that do not rely on a tight fit to the face, are available such as air-fed respirators
Silica dust leaflet and poster
HSENI has also produced a guidance leaflet on the dangers of silica dust. A poster is also available to download and display in your workplace:
More information
For more information on Silica Dust please see the following link: