HSE identifies mortar as a cement-based product and states that cutting or drilling dried mortar can produce dust capable of causing more serious lung disease when silica is present.
Source: UK HSE: Construction hazardous substances: Cement ↗Dust entry
Mortar dust
Dust generated while handling, cutting, drilling, or removing cement-based mortar; its composition may include respirable crystalline silica.
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
nose and throat irritationrespiratory irritationsilicosis risk when silica is presentdermatitischemical burns
Evidence
Controls
- wet methods
- on-tool extraction
- local exhaust ventilation
- skin and eye protection
- appropriate respiratory protection