New Silica Study Finds High Exposure Rates; Inadequate Protection in Construction

A recent study by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists has found that silica exposures average between high and extremely high across a wide range of construction industry activities and that the controls in place are not providing adequate worker protection. The study compiled exposure monitoring data from 13 groups to determine exposure levels by task, tool, and environmental control conditions. Abrasive blasters rated high for exposure by trade (0.22 mg/m³) and tool (0.24 mg/m³) as did cement finishers (0.16 mg/m³) and those using surface grinders (0.28 mg/m³). The study concludes by urging that industry adopt additional engineering controls and better respiratory protection.

The complete study appeared in the March 2006 issue of the Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene and can be ordered through the web site listed below.

For further information: http://www.acgih.org/Products/joeh/

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