ZINC OXIDE FUME BOOTH

Based on much research OSHA has published information regarding the effects of Zinc oxide dust on humans. Although usually considered to be mainly a nuisance dust, workers exposed to high levels of zinc oxide dust can develop respiratory health complications. Inhaling concentrations ranging from up to 430 mg/m(3) [chest pain] to 600 mg/m(3) [rattling breath, coughing, pain and irritation]. Workers inhaling zinc oxide fumes have been known to develop what is commonly referred to as "fume fever" described by the American Welding Society as flu-like symptoms. In addition, frequent skin contact with zinc oxide can lead to unpleasant eruptions on skin on various areas of the body.

SILICA DUST EXTRACTION BOOTH

Silica is most often recognized as the main element in common minerals like sandstone and granite. But many industrial workplaces where grinding occurs on a daily basis do not realize that many other common construction materials like clay bricks, concrete, tiles and fibro cement products contain silica. Grinding, cutting or drilling of these materials creates fine silica dust particles to be suspended in a worker's breathing space. Initially, exposure to silica dust will result in irritation of the eyes, nose and throat. But upon exposure to high levels of very fine silica dust or lower levels over a long period of time, a serious lung disease called silicosis often occurs. This disease is caused by a build up of silica dust in the lungs that leads to scarring and stiffness that results in labored breathing and shortness of breath. In addition to resulting in permanent heart and lung disease, after exhaustive research the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has also classified crystalline silica dust as a human carcinogen. For easy reference regarding the importance of protecting workers from overexposure to silica dust refer to OSHA's crystalline fact sheet.

CALCIUM CHLORIDE DUST CONTROL BOOTH

Calcium chloride is considered to be a very low level toxin but when inhaled can cause upper respiratory tract irritation. The most important reason for using a proper dust collection system however, is that calcium chloride dust can be hazardous as a reactionary element. Mixing it with water generates a considerable amount of heat creating a burn risk, dust that settles on the floor of a work area can absorb moisture and become slippery, and when heated toxic chlorine fumes can result.

MAGNESIUM CHLORIDE DUST CONTROL BOOTH

There are many occurrences of magnesium chloride in the industrial workplace. The preparation of cement and refrigeration brine, manufacturing some ceramics, textiles and papers, fireproofing equipment and wood, cooling drilling tools and de-icing surfaces are just a few of its common uses. In his book "Risk Management for Hazardous Chemicals" Jeffrey w. Vincoli points out that magnesium chloride is considered to be moderately toxic when inhaled as it often causes sneezing, cough, and irritation of the nose and throat. Particles and dust containing magnesium can irritate eyes and nasal passages to the point of experiencing membrane tearing and nosebleeds. Also, when magnesium dust comes in contact with the water in bronchial passages it is possible that a caustic form of magnesium hydroxide can result which can lead to serious burns and tissue damage.

WOOD DUST COLLECTION BOOTH

In numerous publications OSHA emphasizes the importance of recognizing the multiple hazards associated with wood dust exposure in the workplace. It is even important to identify the type of wood being processed when assessing the potential health consequences. Those consequences run the gamut from irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat to pulmonary function impairment to the classification of wood dust as a human carcinogen. Also of utmost importance is the fact that airborne dust can create the potential for a dust explosion.