close Close
phone_iphone +46 (0)8 531 940 00

Part 2: Silica Dust: Build an Effective & Solid Dust Solution

Silica dust how to select the right vacuum cleaner

Visible dust is only part of the problem. Airborne microscopic particles are also present, and many—such as respirable silica (quartz) dust—pose serious health risks when inhaled. So, it is never enough to try to extract the visible dust when you suspect that silica dust is present in the work environment. To protect personnel and at the same time keep work going, a system is required that captures the dust where it is created.

A solid dust solution is built on a simple principle:

  • Capture the dust at source – before it spreads

This is where the right construction dust extractor becomes crucial.

Why is a regular vacuum cleaner not enough?

Silica dust is extremely fine. The particles are invisible and therefore, a standard vacuum cleaner or a solution that “works sometimes” is not enough.

Common problems that can occur with faulty equipment:

  • Suction power drops quickly when the filter becomes clogged
  • Dust leaks out via couplings and connections
  • The wrong filter lets dangerous particles through
  • The machine is not built for daily use

The result is that the dust ends up in the premises anyway – and that work takes longer and risks health.

What characterizes a good construction vacuum cleaner for quartz dust?

When working in concrete, stone or brick, you need a vacuum cleaner that can handle high loads and fine particles. And we name this kind of solution for construction dust exractors.

A professional construction extractor should be able to handle:

  • Stable suction power over time
  • High air volume for effective collection
  • Effective filtration for fine particles
  • Filter cleaning system
  • Robust design adapted to the construction environment

It is not about vacuuming “afterwards”. It is about making dust management an active part of the work. Do you need advices on selecting the righ gear?

Source extraction: the most important measure

The most effective method for reducing silica dust is to use source extraction at the tool, for example at:

  • Grinders
  • Cut saws
  • Drills
  • Milling machines
  • Automotive engines (in combination with the right collection)

The earlier you capture the dust, the less you spread it into the air and in the premises.

New insights: Routines and practices are as important as technology

A 2025 study found that gaps in knowledge, awareness, and work practices among construction workers are common, which affects the effectiveness of technical dust controls in practice (Al-Samarrai & Harbison, 2025).

Conclusion: A good dust solution should not only be effective – it should be simple, practical, and easy to use every day.

Al-Samarrai, H., & Harbison, L. (2025). Workplace respirable crystalline silica dust exposure among construction workers: Knowledge, awareness, and safety practices. International Journal of Occupational Safety and Ergonomics, 31(2), 100–112. https://doi.org/10.1080/15623599.2025.2577926

NEXT PART 3: Why do you need air cleaners and accessories? In the coming post, we’ll go over why local exhaust isn’t always enough – and how air cleaners, shielding and the right accessories can take your dust management from “decent” to really safe. Stay Safe!

Dustcontrol, Box 3088, Kumla Gårdsväg 14, 145 03 Norsborg, SWEDEN