DUS/General/TBT-DUS-006
Construction Dust Hazard Awareness
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Toolbox Talk
Construction Dust Hazard Awareness
Construction dust is not just a nuisance — it is a serious health hazard. There are three main types: silica dust from cutting concrete, stone, and mortar; wood dust from sawing timber and sheet materials; and lower toxicity dust from materials like gypsum andite. Breathing in these dusts over time causes irreversible lung diseases including silicosis, occupational asthma, and lung cancer. Controlling dust at source is the most effective way to protect your long-term health.
Key Hazards
Silicosis and lung cancer from respirable crystalline silica dust
Occupational asthma caused by inhaling sensitising wood and chemical dusts
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease from prolonged dust exposure over years
Eye and skin irritation from airborne dust particles during cutting tasks
Control Measures
- Use water suppression when cutting, chasing, or grinding concrete, block, and stone materials.
- Fit on-tool dust extraction systems to all power tools that generate dust during operation.
- Use the correct RPE for the dust type and ensure you have a valid face-fit test certificate.
- Avoid dry sweeping dusty areas and use vacuum systems with HEPA filters instead.
- Enclose dust-generating processes where possible to prevent dust spreading to other workers.
- Monitor dust exposure levels and compare results against workplace exposure limits.
- Dampen down materials before and during demolition, breaking out, and earthmoving activities.
- Ensure adequate ventilation in enclosed spaces where dust-generating work is taking place.
- Attend health surveillance including lung function testing when required by your employer.
Remember
- Construction dust kills more workers than any other occupational hazard in the UK.
- Silica dust from cutting concrete and stone is the most dangerous dust on site.
- You cannot see the most harmful fine dust particles — they are invisible to the naked eye.
- RPE is the last line of defence and must always be combined with dust suppression at source.
- Health effects from dust exposure develop over years and are irreversible once established.
- If you can see a dust cloud, the exposure level is almost certainly above safe limits.
Applicable Legislation: Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations 2002 (COSHH) · Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 · Workplace Exposure Limits (EH40)
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