New Research: Better Dust Control Can Reduce Silica Exposure by More Than 90%

A newly published open-access systematic review highlights an important message for the construction industry: respirable crystalline silica (RCS) remains one of the most serious occupational health hazards, despite increased awareness and stricter regulations. The researchers reviewed 143 scientific studies published over the past 20 years and found that many workers are still exposed to hazardous dust because effective dust control measures are not consistently implemented on construction sites.

Engineering controls and real-time monitoring makes a difference

The review concludes that engineering controls—such as local exhaust ventilation, on-tool dust extraction, wet suppression systems and improved tool designs—can reduce dust exposure by more than 90% when properly used. However, inadequate equipment, poor maintenance, lack of training and inconsistent use of dust control technologies continue to put workers at unnecessary risk.

Another key finding is that the construction area is moving towards real-time dust monitoring, wearable sensors and smarter exposure assessment, allowing employers to identify hazardous situations before workers inhale dangerous levels of dust.

The message is clear: protecting workers’ lungs is not only about wearing respiratory protection. It starts by preventing dust from becoming airborne through effective source extraction, proper filtration and well-maintained equipment.

Investing in the right dust control solutions is an investment in healthier workplaces, improved productivity and, most importantly, the long-term health of construction workers.

The takeaway is simple:

The takeaway is simple: The problem isn’t that we don’t know how to control silica dust. The problem is that the right equipment isn’t always used, maintained or positioned correctly.

The dust you can see isn’t necessarily the only dust you should worry about most. If visible dust is present, microscopic airborne particles are likely to be present as well- and these invisible particles can pose a greater health risk because they are small enough to reach the deepest parts of the lungs.

Source: Kalatehjari R. et al. (2025). Trends and Future Directions in Mitigating Silica Exposure in Construction: A Systematic Review. Buildings, MDPI (Open Access).

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