Dust generated during production processes is not a homogeneous pollutant. Its properties depend, amongst other things, on the material from which it originates, the particle size, the chemical composition and the manner of emission. This is precisely why dust in the workplace requires proper identification and the selection of effective methods to reduce its concentration. In joinery, metalworking and welding workshops, or during laser cutting, dust extraction is not merely a matter of comfort, but above all an essential part of a properly designed workstation.
Dust generated during production processes is not a homogeneous contaminant. Its properties depend, amongst other things, on the material from which it is produced, particle size, chemical composition and the manner of emission. This is precisely why dust in the workplace requires proper identification and the selection of effective methods to reduce its concentration. In joinery, metalworking and welding workshops, or during laser cutting, dust extraction is not merely a matter of comfort, but above all an essential part of a properly designed workstation.
Contents
- What is industrial dust?
- Types of dust in the workplace
- Sources of dust emissions in workshops
- The most harmful dusts to humans
- How can dust levels be reduced in the workplace?
- Summary
What is industrial dust?
Industrial dust consists of fine solid particles suspended in the air, which are produced as a result of industrial processes. They may be generated by cutting, grinding, drilling, milling, welding, combustion or other mechanical and thermal operations. Their size is of great importance – the smaller the particle size, the more easily they can penetrate deep into the respiratory system.
From an occupational health and safety perspective, it is not only important to consider how much dust is generated, but also where and how it enters the air. Therefore, an analysis of the types of dust present in the workplace at a specific workstation should precede the selection of a dust extraction system.
Types of dust in the workplace
The types of dust in the workplace can be considered primarily in terms of their origin and properties. In industrial plants, dusts encountered include, amongst others, wood dust, metal dust, plastic dust, mineral dust, and dust generated during welding and laser cutting processes.
Dusts can also vary in particle size. Larger particles settle relatively quickly onto surfaces, whilst fine particles remain suspended in the air for a long time and can be inhaled more easily. This is precisely why an effective dust extraction system should be tailored to the type of material and the nature of the process, rather than being selected solely on the basis of the equipment’s declared performance.
Classification of industrial dusts
The classification of industrial dusts may take into account their composition, physical properties and potential effects on the human body. In practice, the distinction between dusts that are inert, irritant, toxic, sensitising or carcinogenic is of particular importance.
The respirable fraction is also important; this is the part of the dust that can reach the deeper parts of the respiratory system. Not every visible deposit therefore poses the greatest risk. It is often the particles invisible to the naked eye that require the greatest attention when designing a dust extraction system.
Sources of dust emissions in workshops
Sources of dust emissions in work areas are directly linked to the technology used. In a joinery workshop, these will primarily be saws, routers, planers and grinders. In a metalworks, dust may be generated during machining, grinding or cutting. Welding, on the other hand, produces fumes and particles that require the use of a suitably selected extraction system.
In practice, it is best to minimise emissions at source. This is facilitated by a properly designed industrial ventilation system, which is designed to capture pollutants before they spread throughout the workshop.
The most harmful dusts to humans
Not all dust pollutants pose the same risk. The dusts most harmful to humans are, above all, those that can reach the deep parts of the lungs and exhibit toxic, sensitising or carcinogenic effects. Particular attention should be paid to dust generated during the processing of materials containing substances with hazardous properties, as well as to very fine particles produced in thermal processes.
Different solutions are used depending on the type of process. Welding extractors are useful for welding, whilst laser extractors are effective for laser cutting and engraving. Such solutions help to reduce pollutant emissions directly at source.
How can dust levels at the workstation be reduced?
Preventing the effects of dust exposure should begin with reducing dust emissions. Enclosing the process, proper workplace organisation and an effective local extraction system are of key importance. It is also important to clean the system regularly, check the filters and adjust the equipment’s settings to the actual workload.
In woodworking workshops, sawdust extraction systems are particularly useful, as they capture sawdust, shavings and dust directly from the machines. For larger installations, industrial dust extraction systems are used, enabling several workstations to be served simultaneously. A suitably selected industrial extraction system helps to maintain dust extraction performance during intensive production work.
When selecting a system, the following factors should be taken into account above all:
- the type and properties of the dust,
- particle size,
- the amount of contaminants generated during the process,
- the number of workstations served,
- the required air flow,
- type of filtration,
- potential for future expansion of the system.
Summary
Dusts in the workplace can vary significantly in their properties, which is why their effective removal requires a tailored approach. Classifying industrial dusts allows for a better assessment of the nature of the hazard, whilst analysing the production process facilitates the selection of a suitable dust extraction system. The best results are achieved by capturing contaminants as close as possible to the point of generation.
Properly selected dust extraction equipment reduces dust levels in the workshop, protects equipment and helps to create safer working conditions. In this regard, it is worth utilising solutions tailored to the specific process and scale of production. CORMAK, a manufacturer of industrial machinery, offers a wide range of dust extraction and material handling equipment, which can form part of either a single workstation or an extensive industrial system.
