Occupational dust exposure occurs when small particles are generated at the workplace through the disturbance/agitation of rock/mineral, dry grain, timber, fiber, or other material.
As such, the nature of occupational dust exposures can vary greatly by chemical composition, size, concentration, and toxicity to humans.
Particles generated at workplaces can range in size from microscopic nano-particles (< 0.1 μm) to large, visible dust (50 - 100μm).
The concentration of these exposures are affected by their ability to "become airborne depending on their origin, physical characteristics and ambient conditions.
"[1][2] Factors like chemical composition, size, and concentration in the air can have drastic effects on the toxicity of occupational dust exposures.
[6] Dust generated from milling, handling and storage of grains or fibers can pose a threat to workers' health.
Storage structures can create dangerous conditions due to gases emitted from spoiled grains and chemical fumes.
A NIOSH[12] sponsored study concluded a 4 mg/m3 limit proposed for OSHA, based on an evaluation of 310 grain handlers from Wisconsin and Minnesota.
[14] If exposures are not controlled for, the proper personal protective equipment is needed when working in an environment with airborne dust particles.
[17] With more than 6 million people working in the steel industry around the world, these employees have the potential to be exposed to particulate matter from the dust.
The buildup of these particles can accumulate in the brain and produce symptoms such as tremors, body rigidness, reduces the sense of smell and impairs motor function as well as balance.
[18] Long term exposure to dust particles containing metallic compounds have been found to impair pulmonary surfactant and lung function which then results in chronic respiratory diseases.
Large, airborne dust particles can obscure vision, limit mobility while on the ground, and interfere with proper machine/equipment functioning.
Engineering controls such as wet methods, dust collectors, and improved HVAC systems can also be highly protective.
Administrative measures such as shift rotations can also help reduce personal exposures to acceptable levels.
Lastly, PPE can be an effective method of helping individual workers avoid inhaling harmful aerosols.