Concrete Grinders Garden Nursery Landscaping Guide
Concrete Grinders Producing Hazardous Crystalline Dust
By Joel F Morningstar
There are many different types of tools that can be dangerous
to use, most because physical harm can come to the operator if
the tools are used improperly or carelessly. There are other ways,
however, in which a tool may be hazardous to a person’s health.
When tools, such as concrete grinders are used, clouds of dust
are formed. This dust can be potentially harmful to those who
inhale it. While breathing this dust can cause direct harm to
operators of tools such as the concrete grinder and concrete power
saws, these tools are still widely used in the construction world,
both in hand held and floor model varieties.
Inhaling Crystalline Silica Dust Can Cause Silicosis
Dust created from using a concrete grinder can be a serious health
hazard. Many contractors who must use these tools or who must
be involved in concrete saw cutting methods, face developing the
disease called silicosis.
This is a disease of the lungs caused by inhaling crystalline
silica dust. Contractors and construction workers may be subjected
to this type of dust in many different situations.
Grinders Disease Can Result From Removing Rust And Paint
Severe exposure to crystalline silica dust can happen during
abrasive sand blasting procedures to remove rust and paint from
buildings and bridges. Exposure can also happen while boring through
rock to drill a well or using power saws and grinders to cut through
concrete.
Another name for silicosis is grinder’s disease, named so because
the act of grinding concrete is the most common cause for this
illness. In the United States there are over 2 million people
who may actually be at risk of crystalline silica dust exposure.
Taking Precautions To Reduce Risk Of Inhaling Dust
Sadly, for people who must work in the construction industry
and operate or work close to concrete grinders or concrete saws,
there is no cure. It is important for any one who might be exposed
to this dust to review their safety options and take precautions
to protect themselves.
Dust extractors that can pull the dust up and away from the area
the individual is working in, as well as face masks, should always
be used in order to attempt to lessen the threat of inhaling crystalline
dust.
Grinders Equipped With A Rubber Sleeve
Concrete grinders are well designed tools used to level, clean
or smooth granite, marble and concrete. While these grinders make
a contractor’s job easier, they pose a potential hazard to their
health.
The good news is that some grinders come equipped with a rubber
sleeve to ensure that the concrete dust produced by the grinding
apparatus remains contained. It is important that those using
these types of construction tools take proper steps to protect
themselves from dust.
About the Author:
Joel F Morningstar has written a number of articles on home improvement, home decor, gardening
and landscaping including
Air Purifier Dehumidifier,
Handyman Home Services,
Front Yard Landscape,
Fast Growing Trees,
Stone Walkway,
Big Backyard,
Deck Ideas,
Lawn And Garden.
Keep a lookout for more of his articles on this website.
Little Known Facts About Concrete Saws....
Which is better: wet cutting or dry cutting when using a concrete
saw?
Depending on the type of concrete saw, you
may not have a choice between wet and dry cutting. Hand held units,
for example, tend to lack the required equipment needed for water
cutting.
Stationary or walk behind units will provide
the means to apply water to the blade. Due to the heat and friction
generated by the abrasive blade, wet cutting provides necessary
cooling to extend blade life. Additionally, wet cutting provides
a means to control dust created by the grinding action, reducing
hazards to the operator.
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