In-Depth Survey Report of Control of Respirable Dust and Crystalline Silica from Grinding Concrete at Messer Construction Newport, Kentucky and Baker Concrete Construction Dayton, Ohio

摘要

When construction workers use hand-held grinders to smooth poured concrete surfaces after forms are removed, they risk overexposure to respirable dust and crystalline silica. A previous study at a stadium construction site revealed TWA respirable crystalline silica exposures that ranged from 56 to 830 micrograms/cu(m) (the NIOSH REL is to micrograms/cu(m)) and TWA respirable dust concentrations ranging from 0.38 to 6.9 micrograms/cu(m). Silicosis is an occupational respiratory disease caused by inhaling respirable crystalline silica dust. Silicosis is irreversible, often progressive (even after exposure has ceased), and potentially fatal. Exposure to crystalline silica dust occurs in many occupations, including construction. Because no effective treatment exists for silicosis, prevention through exposure control is essential. The study described here compared the exposures during the use of off-the-shelf local exhaust ventilation shrouds with that of no shroud. The aim was to quantify the exposure reduction that could be achieved through the use of shrouds, and to compare shroud effectiveness.