A NIOSH health-hazard evaluation identified cardboard dust generated during box handling and compressed-air blowdown as an exposure requiring control recommendations in a food-processing facility where workers reported respiratory symptoms.
Source: CDC/NIOSH: HETA 2011-0102-3194 — Evaluation of respiratory concerns at a cream cheese manufacturing facility ↗Dust entry
Cardboard packaging dust
Dust generated when cardboard boxes and packaging materials are handled or cleaned, especially when compressed air is used in food-processing and packaging areas.
Airborne form
dust
The form describes what is suspended in air at the point of exposure. A material can produce more than one form, such as dust during handling and fume during heating.
Health effects
upper-respiratory irritationlower-respiratory symptomsbreathing difficultyrespiratory exposure concern
Evidence
Controls
- avoid compressed-air blowdown
- local exhaust ventilation
- vacuum or wet cleaning
- exposure monitoring
- appropriate respiratory protection