How Harmful Is Silica?
Silica is in many construction dusts such as concrete and rock. Tasks that expose workers to large amounts of silica include sand blasting, rock drilling, and concrete drilling and grinding. Long-term exposure to silica leads to lung disease (silicosis). Long-term exposure also increases the risk of cancer. You can prevent exposure to silica by: • reducing airborne dust through ventilation and wetting and • using NIOSH-approved toxic dust respirators. How Harmful Is Asphalt? Asphalt fumes may cause eye and respiratory tract irritation. Hot asphalt can severely burn the skin. To prevent exposure to asphalt: • Work upwind whenever possible. • Maintain a lower temperature to minimize fumes. • Use ventilation on paving machines. • Wear gloves and long-sleeved shirts to prevent skin contact. How Harmful Is Wet Concrete? Wet concrete can cause dermatitis and skin burns. Dermatitis can be either an irritation from chemicals in the concrete or an allergic reaction. The allergic type is very di
