Once the presence of RCS has been identified on a construction site, the next step is taking appropriate measures to monitor the levels of exposure that workers are being faced with. From there, it's possible to determine which sorts of protective equipment and dust minimisation processes are best suited to reducing the risk of exposure.
There are two main methods of monitoring silica dust exposure on a construction site. The first is by taking test samples at a worker's location throughout a typical work day, in order to get the best picture of what they're being exposed to. These samples can then be tested to work out how much of the dust is RCS, and from there determine what parts of the job site require the most attention. For example, a worker operating on the other side of a site to where cement is being drilled may not expect to be exposed to RCS, but a sample of the dust around them will provide a definite answer.
While dust sampling is highly effective, it can also be expensive and time-consuming, in addition to being unable to account for the movements of each and every worker on a site. That's why it's so important to supplement any dust sampling with individual health monitoring. This involves regularly testing lung function and respiratory ability, in order to quickly determine whether or not a possible exposure to silica dust is causing the first signs of silicosis.
Of course, there's no use in monitoring silica exposure without having access to the right tools for minimising the hazard. That's where Hilti comes in, with a variety of different dust removal technologies that can keep your site and your employees free from RCS and the damage it causes. To find out more, get in touch today.