Dust & Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE)

Introduction

Dust in the workplace is not just a nuisance; it can lead to serious health conditions, including chronic respiratory problems and even conditions like Silicosis. In some cases, certain dusts are known to be carcinogenic. This toolbox aims to provide you with vital information on dust and Respiratory Protective Equipment (RPE), shedding light on how to minimise your exposure to these airborne hazards.

‍Types of Dust: What You Need to Know

When it comes to workplace safety, it's important to differentiate between two types of dust:

• Respirable Dust: These are small particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs and alveoli.
• Inhalable Dust: These are larger particles that get trapped in the nose, mouth, or throat.

Health Impacts of Dust Exposure

Exposure to dust can lead to a range of health problems, such as:

• Eye irritation
• Skin irritation
• Gastrointestinal irritation if swallowed
• Respiratory conditions

Activities That Generate Dust

Awareness is key to prevention. Work activities that often produce harmful dust include:

• Dry cutting (e.g., concrete, paving stones)
• Dry sweeping and compressed air blowing
• Crushing and screening of rock
• Stockpiling materials like soil, sand, and grains
• Milling, grinding, sanding, or sand-blasting
• Emptying dust bags into skips or containers

Reducing Dust Exposure: Practical Measures

To minimise dust exposure, consider the following best practices:

• Segregate or enclose dusty processes
• Opt for wet cutting or grinding methods
• Utilise on-tool dust extraction systems
• Use less harmful materials
• Apply local exhaust ventilation (LEV)
• Use appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Respirator Selection and Fitting

Choosing the right respirator is essential. Various types include half-faced disposable dust masks, half-faced reusable masks, and full-face masks. Respirator selection depends on the type of airborne contaminant and the level of protection required. Make sure to get fit-tested annually and to check for a proper seal before each use. For a detailed guide on selecting a respirator, consider using this online RPE selector tool.

Final Thoughts

Proper respirator use should always be complemented by other safety measures like adequate ventilation. Always remember that facial hair, weight fluctuations, and even dental work can affect the fit and effectiveness of your respirator.

Contact Us

For any suggestions or improvements in regard to Health and Safety on site, feel free to email our Health and Safety Officer at dan@maxpeople.co.nz.

Key Takeaways

• Dust exposure can lead to serious, sometimes irreversible, health conditions.
• There are multiple methods to reduce dust exposure effectively.
• The selection and fitting of respirators are crucial for workplace safety.

Remember, stay safe and make health a priority in your workplace.

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