How is respirable crystalline silica (RCS) exposure monitored in workplaces?
To determine the RCS exposure, the following methods are used in the workplaces:
- Personal Sampling: Workers wear some apparatus like air sampling pumps which are coupled with filters to collect silica dust in the workers’ breathing zone for some time.
- Stationary Monitoring: The fixed devices or real-time monitors are used to determine the RCS concentrations in the high-risk zones for the assessment of the air quality in the workplace.
- Air Sampling Analysis: The air samples are analysed in laboratories using methods such as XRD or infrared spectroscopy to determine the amount of silica in the sample.
- Real-Time Monitoring: The modern tools offer real time results on dust levels so if certain thresholds are hit, prompt intervention is made.
- Comparing with Standards: The outcomes are compared with certain standards like Workplace Exposure Limits (WELs) to check the adherence.
Thus, regular monitoring prevents the appearance of danger on the object, the effectiveness of measures that have been taken, and compliance with the requirements of health and safety regulations.
