Airborne dust is one of the most serious health hazards in many work environments. It does not only directly affect the employees, but it also has significant repercussions on the public. Without proper interventions, dust is a source of water and air pollution, making it a significant threat to the environment. In this article, we’ll list down some of the businesses that should be taking dust control seriously. Otherwise, their negligence will have far-reaching consequences.

1. Construction

From excavation to blasting, construction activities generate tiny particles of dust. It may be invisible, but it has huge health effects, especially to workers with direct exposure. Silica dust is one of the most common types of dust that you can find in construction sites, which is from materials like concrete and sandstone. It is up to 100 times smaller than sand and can be deadly with long-term exposure. There is also lower toxicity dust, such as from dolomite and limestone, among other construction materials.

2. Mining

Like construction, mining activities will release dust particles in the air. Coal and silica dust are some of the most common types of dust that you will find in mining sites. The risk can be as simple as eye and skin irritation. In the worst scenarios, however, the impact can be as serious as lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, among other health problems that can eventually result in death.

3. Manufacturing

Dust is also a serious problem in indoor workplaces, especially in the manufacturing sector. A lot of the raw materials and processes can create tiny but deadly dust particles. The problem is worsened when the facility is poorly designed, such as when there is a lack of proper ventilation to ensure air circulation.

4. Woodworking

Wood processing creates tiny dust particles that can also pose huge health risks, similar to the industries mentioned in this article. Aside from dust, the damage is worsened by the presence of formaldehyde, resins, and other chemicals that are present in the wood. Sawing, cutting, and sanding are some of the woodworking activities that can contribute to the creation of dust. The health effects of wood dust will largely depend on the specific type of wood that is being processed.

5. Agriculture

Farming or agriculture dust is as deadly as those mentioned earlier. The most at risk are the farmers or those with direct exposure. Crops and animal wastes are some of the most common sources of dust in agricultural settings. Diesel engine exhaust and powdered chemicals used in the treatment of plants will also produce dust. They can result in long-term and chronic effects, such as bronchitis and lung congestion.

From construction to agriculture, dust is a big problem in many businesses. The most important is to have a proactive approach in its management, and that includes the use of misting cannons, such as those you will find at Bosstek. These cannons will create atomized mists to saturate dust right at the source, preventing it from being a hazard in the workplace.

Edward Bertrand