Respirable dust is small enough to reach the gas-exchange region of the lungs. Once there, particles such as RCS and certain wood dusts trigger inflammation and scarring. Over time this can lead to silicosis, COPD, occupational asthma, and increased cancer risk. The damage builds silently, often without immediate symptoms.

How the harm happens

• Particles deposit in the alveoli, where the body struggles to clear them.
• Persistent irritation drives fibrosis (scarring) that reduces lung elasticity.
• Some dusts are carcinogenic or sensitising, raising cancer and asthma risk.

Controls that reduce disease risk

Prevent dust release

• Plan work to minimise cutting and grinding. Prefer wet methods or factory-prepared materials.
• Fit LEV at source with effective shrouds. Use M-Class for general/wood and H-Class for RCS or carcinogenic dusts.

Manage the air

• Air scrubbers or negative pressure help stop migration to welfare and adjacent trades. Use H14 filtration for fine or high-risk dusts.
• Size by under-load performance and maintain seals and prefilters. A MAXVAC Dustblocker can support background control on occupied refurbishments.

Keep surfaces clean

• Replace sweeping with industrial vacuuming. Schedule cleans during the shift, not only at the end.
• Bag and seal waste at source to prevent re-release.

People measures

• RPE: P3 for RCS and other fine dusts, with face-fit testing and checks before each use.
• Training: show workers how to set up shrouds, check airflow, and maintain filters.
• Health surveillance: under COSHH, provide it where there is a reasonable likelihood of disease (commonly for RCS and wood dust work).

Consistent application of the three-layer approach, backed by training, fit-tested RPE, and basic monitoring, is the most reliable way to break the link between respirable dust and lung disease.