Device Reduces Silica Exposure in Concrete Scabblers
by Nearly 80 Percent, Investigation Finds

photo-5A construction site superintendent has developed a device that researchers claim can significantly reduce levels of respirable crystalline silica exposures among construction workers exposed to dust while resurfacing concrete.

In a case study published in a recent issue of Applied Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, a group of NIOSH investigators reported that the novel control, which is attached to a concrete scabbler, reduces mean exposure levels to respirable silica dust by as much as 80 percent.

The device was tested during a concrete resurfacing project at an unidentified airport parking deck, where scabblers were being used to remove high spots …