Back to: Construction Dust
Construction Workers
DON’T GAMBLE WITH YOUR FUTURE HEALTH AND HAPPINESS BY TAKING RISKS TODAY
REDUCING YOUR EXPOSURE TO CONSTRUCTION DUST
Some of the most common construction jobs create high dust levels. These jobs often involve the use of power tools like cut-off saws, grinders, breakers and sanders.
There is a legal duty for employers to prevent or adequately control worker exposure to construction dust. Ideally, your employer will eliminate your risk of exposure to dust by good design and planning. Where this is not entirely possible, measures should be put in place by your employer to control dust and you should wear an appropriate mask.
USE ON-TOOL EXTRACTION WHEN USING POWER TOOLS
On-tool extraction is an effective control for dust and will reduce your risk of ill health.
On-tool extraction is a type of local exhaust ventilation (LEV) system which is fitted directly onto the tool.
PROTECT YOUR HEALTH WHEN USING OF CUT-OFF SAWS
Common construction materials contain stone, rock, sand and clays which may contain large amounts of crystalline silica. Cutting kerbs, flags, bricks, tiles and concrete produces silica particles in the airborne dust which are too small to be seen. Exposure to this type of dust can cause serious health problems and may eventually kill you.
Managing the risk:
- Damp down the dust – water suppression is your first line of defence
- Wear a suitable mask
HOW TO STAY SAFE FROM THE RISK OF DUST AS A BUSY BUILDER
Don’t just think of construction dust as a nuisance. It is a serious risk to your health.
KNOW YOUR ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES AS A CONSTRUCTION WORKER
A worker is anyone such as a plumber, electrician, scaffolder, painter, decorator, steel erector or labourer, as well as supervisors and chargehands, working for or under the control of a contractor on a construction site. Workers have an important role and should take an active part in helping to manage health and safety risks.
WATCH HSE’S PROFESSOR DAVID FISHWICK ON HOW TO PREVENT EXPOSURE TO CONSTRUCTION DUST
HSE’s Chief Medical Advisor Professor David Fishwick explains more about how to prevent exposure to construction dusts and the risks to construction workers’ health if exposure is not effectively controlled.
Contact Details
Corporate Communications
2.2 Redgrave Court
Merton Rd
Bootle
L20 7HS
2.2 Redgrave Court
Merton Rd
Bootle
L20 7HS
