Chapter 3 – The main kinds of RCS dust control

There are five main types of dust control.

We should follow the hierarchy of controls when applying them.

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Elimination

The most effective form of control, eliminating or removing the hazard.

Substitution

Substituting or replacing one hazard with a less hazardous one, in order to increase the safety of an activity.

Engineering controls

Reduction of exposure by isolating workers from the hazard and minimizing contact. Besides isolation, engineering controls include the use of ventilation systems to extract the dust from the air before exposure occurs, or replace dusty air with clean air. Also included are water suppression systems that dampen the material to prevent dust from being given off.

Administrative controls

Changing and improving the way people work to optimize processes and reduce exposure. Examples of this include job rotation and regular breaks, or access restrictions to the workplace in order to reduce the duration, frequency and severity of exposure. Developing safe working practices and providing training are also important parts of this process.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

PPE protects only the wearer and relies upon individual action to be successful.

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