Control of Exposure to Dusts
In October 2006 changes were introduced to the COSHH (Control of Substances Hazardous to Health) Regulations to reduce the exposure limit of Respirable Crystalline Sillica (RCS). This is contained in the fine airborne dust released when cutting or grinding most concrete or stone products, and if inhaled deeply into the lungs can lodge there and eventually lead to sillicosis or other cancers. The new Working Exposure Limit (WEL) allows a maximum of 0.1 milligrams of RCS per cubic metre of air, averaged over an eight hour period. This is a miniscule amount (imagine 1:40,000 of a sugar cube). Similar controls are required for other construction and industry generated airborne dusts such as cement, plaster and wood (particularly hardwoods).
Wherever possible dusts must be controlled at source, with dust masks (PPE) being used as a secondary protective measure.
Most dust generating tools supplied by Anchorage Hire now have either the option of a water feed for dust suppression, or a vacuum port for dust extraction. We have introduced a stand alone air filtration unit which draws in dusty air and exhausts dust free air, ideal for reducing general dust caused during room refurbishment, or in a workshop. We also stock dust masks and PPE to aid the control of airborne hazards.
Catalogue Code: 006-040