6. Dust control and respiratory health

Dust control and respiratory health are significant concerns in the cement industry due to the

generation of dust containing hazardous substances such as silica, which can cause respiratory

illnesses like silicosis if inhaled in high concentrations. Here are some strategies for dust control and

promoting respiratory health in the cement industry

Engineering Controls:

Use engineering controls such as local exhaust ventilation systems, dust collectors, and dust

suppression techniques to capture and control dust at the source. Install dust collection systems on

crushers, mills, and other dust-generating equipment to minimize emissions. Employ wet suppression methods, such as spraying water or chemical dust suppressants, to reduce airborne dust during material handling, loading, and transportation operations.

Administrative Controls:

Implement administrative controls such as work practices, procedures, and training to minimize dust

exposure. Develop and enforce dust control policies and procedures, including proper handling and

storage of materials, to reduce dust generation.

Rotate workers to different tasks to limit prolonged exposure to dusty environments. Schedule

maintenance activities during periods of reduced production to minimize dust exposure.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

Provide appropriate respiratory protective equipment (RPE), such as dust masks or respirators, to

workers who are exposed to airborne dust. Ensure that RPE is properly selected, fitted, and

maintained, and train workers on its proper use.

In addition to respiratory protection, provide other PPE such as safety goggles, gloves, and coveralls

to minimize skin and eye exposure to dust and other hazardous substances.

Education and Training:

Provide comprehensive training to workers on the health hazards associated with dust exposure and

the importance of proper dust control measures. Train workers on how to recognize dust hazards, use

PPE correctly, and follow safe work practices.

Educate workers on the signs and symptoms of respiratory illnesses like silicosis and encourage them

to report any respiratory symptoms promptly.

Health Monitoring:

Implement a health monitoring program to monitor workers respiratory health and detect early signs of respiratory illnesses. Conduct regular medical examinations, lung function tests, and chest X-rays for workers exposed to silica dust.

Provide workers with access to occupational health services and medical surveillance programs to

monitor their respiratory health and provide timely medical intervention if necessary.

Environmental Monitoring:

Conduct regular monitoring of airborne dust levels in the workplace to assess exposure levels and

ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Use real-time dust monitoring equipment to identify

areas with high dust concentrations and take corrective actions as needed.

Continuous Improvement:

Continuously evaluate and improve dust control measures based on feedback from workers, results

of environmental monitoring, and advancements in dust control technology. Regularly review and

update dust control policies and procedures to ensure their effectiveness.

By implementing these strategies, the cement industry can effectively control dust emissions and

protect workers respiratory health, reducing the risk of respiratory illnesses associated with dust

exposure.