Dust Danger Decoded: 2.3 Million exposed, 500 workers Die in Construction's Silent Hazard.

Read More to Know the Hazard?

In today's developing world, we are constantly surrounded by the construction industry. But have you ever wondered how this industry can be a big reason for our health issues today? Whenever there is construction, there is a sign that the city or country is developing, especially in infrastructure. However, it also brings a lot of challenges. Construction is one of the major contributors to the world's pollution, which we see today.?

Dust, a major pollutant from construction activities, comes in various forms. Inhaling these particles has a profound impact on human health. This article will shed light on the types of dust emitted from construction activities, their effects on health, and effective methods to control dust emissions during infrastructure development.

Types of Dust at construction sites

When working or residing around construction sites, taking precautions and protecting yourself from dust is essential. Different dust particles are present in the air we breathe, which enter our body through respiration. You should know how these dust particles can harm your body and what dust can cause what type of illness. Here are some of the common dust emitted from construction that you should know:

Silica Dust

Silica dust is made up of microscopic particles of quartz, a common mineral found in sand, rock, concrete, and many other materials. When working with these materials, quartz is released as fine respirable dust. Long exposure to crystalline silica can severely harm the human respiratory system and cause life-threatening diseases, including cancer.? Respirable crystalline silica exposure is a known risk factor for lung cancer. Studies have also shown a link between silica dust exposure and an increased risk of kidney disease.

FACT: Approximately 2.3 million workers are exposed to silica dust in the workplace, and over 500 construction workers are believed to die from exposure to silica dust every year.

Asbestos

Asbestos dust is made up of tiny fibers from asbestos minerals. These minerals are naturally occurring and can be found in rock and soil. Asbestos fibers are very strong and resistant to heat and electricity. Because of these properties, asbestos was once widely used in various building materials and commercial products.

It is one of the most hazardous dust emitted from construction sites. These fibers are so tiny that you can't see them with the naked eye. When inhaled, they can lodge themselves in the lungs and cause serious health problems over time. It can cause asbestosis, which is a severe lung disease that causes scarring of the lungs.

Do you know??

An estimated 4.1 to 7.3 million workers in the EU, predominantly in the construction sector, are exposed to asbestos despite its ban in 2005. This exposure is predicted to rise by 4% annually until 2031.

Fugitive Dust

Commercial, construction, and industrial activities mostly generate fugitive dust in the open air, containing visible and non-visible airborne particles. Fugitive dust consists of tiny particles that can be as small as 2.5 micrometers in diameter and originate from various sources. Despite its origins, its effects on human health are far-reaching and multifaceted.

Inhaling fugitive dust can immediately irritate the respiratory system, leading to frequent coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath. Prolonged exposure can significantly worsen existing respiratory problems like asthma and bronchitis and even escalate to heart disease and cancer, posing severe long-term health risks. Fugitive dust can significantly reduce visibility and harm plant life by coating leaves and blocking sunlight. It can also contribute to soil erosion and water pollution.

Dust Control Measures

If you work or live in an environment with a lot of dust, try to identify the type of dust. Try to reduce the amount of dust in the air by using dust control or suppression methods. Here are some of the techniques you can use to control dust:

• Water spray: Water is a solid dust compressor. It can reduce dust in various ways, and spraying water on fine, dry soils and unpaved roads is helpful. In construction, spraying water on the sites will prevent it from mixing with air.?
• Regular Monitoring: To know how much dust is present in the air, it is necessary to monitor it regularly. You can utilize pollution or air quality monitoring devices like Oizom's Dustroid to monitor. It tracks dust levels throughout the day and provides a more accurate picture of exposure levels.
• Chemical dust suppressants: Chemical dust suppressants are applied to surfaces to bind dust particles together. They offer a more long-lasting solution than watering, especially in arid climates, but choosing the right chemical and using it correctly is crucial for a positive outcome.
• Cleaning and maintenance: This approach focuses on cleaning up dust that has already been released. Sweeping, vacuuming, and wet methods like scrubbing are common removal techniques.

Conclusion

In conclusion, construction emits different types of dust, which can be very harmful and lead to severe diseases. Inhaling dust can be risky and cause serious health problems, depending on the dust type and the exposure level. Some dust, like silica, is carcinogenic (cancer-causing). Organic dust (from plants, animals, or mold) can trigger allergic reactions or asthma attacks. Toxic dust, such as those containing lead or asbestos, can cause serious health problems even at low levels of exposure.

Taking precautions when working on or living near a construction site is very important to protect yourself from exposure. By implementing dust control measures, you can reduce dust emissions. These things are what construction workers or managers should keep in mind while working.