HSE states that cutting paving, blocks, and kerbs can produce very high levels of silica-containing dust and identifies this as high-risk work.
Source: UK HSE: Construction dust: Cutting paving blocks, kerbs and flags ↗Dust entry
Paving-block and flag dust
Silica-containing dust generated while cutting paving blocks, flags, and kerbs with powered cutting equipment.
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
silicosislung cancerCOPDserious respiratory disease
Evidence
Controls
- block splitters or lower-energy equipment
- water suppression
- off-site cutting where possible
- local exhaust ventilation
- appropriate respiratory protection