A NIOSH-indexed study of a large petrochemical enterprise reported airborne dust concentrations up to 619.3 mg/m3, estimated free-silica content of 84.5–99%, respiratory changes, and increased conjunctival symptoms among workers.
Source: CDC/NIOSH: Study on dust hazards and preventive measures in modern large scale petrochemical enterprises ↗Dust entry
Petrochemical polymer-charging dust
Airborne dust generated during charging and processing of polyethylene, polypropylene, and nylon-66 in large petrochemical facilities.
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
respiratory irritationrespiratory changesconjunctival irritationrespirable crystalline-silica exposurepulmonary fibrosis concern
Evidence
Controls
- enclosed charging
- local exhaust ventilation
- dust suppression
- process isolation
- exposure monitoring
- appropriate respiratory protection