Depending on where it’s formed, dust can be made up of dead skin cells, dust mites, pollen, soil particles, and general debris. In some cases, dust can also carry fungi, viruses, and bacteria, which means that influenza-related infections can spread through the air.
When dust particles are inhaled, they can cause allergic reactions. But the dangers go beyond that: dust can carry toxic particles like nanotubes and asbestos fibres, which can damage lung tissue and increase the risk of developing cancer and other fatal diseases.
In the UK, thousands of workers die every year due to diseases caused by inhaling dust and fumes. The dangers of inhaling silica dust, produced by a wide range of construction products, including bricks, concrete, and tiles, cannot be underestimated, since exposure to these particles can cause lung cancer, COPD, kidney disease, and permanent lung scarring.
Farm workers and construction contractors are particularly vulnerable to dust inhalation. The Health and Safety Executive has made advice available online about how to minimise the dangers of silica dust in the workplace.
In addition to the dust control measures suggested by health authorities, you can further reduce the risk of dust inhalation by getting a dust suppression bowser.
These high-capacity tanks are very useful in work sites, as they can store large amounts of water that can be sprayed on dusty soil. Dampening the soil is a cost-effective way of reducing on-site dust and of preventing the formation of dust clouds.
The dust suppression bowsers we supply at Enduramaxx come in various capacities, ranging from 300 to 2,000 litres. All our water bowsers are made with UV stabilised polyethylene, which ensures the water is stored under hygienic conditions. What’s more, they already come fitted with tyres, filters, a hose, and a pump, so you can start using them pretty much straight away.
If you have been researching ways of minimising dust exposure in your work site, we invite you to check the range of water bowsers available from Enduramaxx. We’re confident you’ll find an option that suits your needs and helps make your site healthier.
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