Regulations on Industrial Dust in Manufacturing | Wellbeing

What is Industrial Dust?

Industrial dust consists of minuscule solid particles generated during the production, processing, transportation, or storage of raw materials. Due to their microscopic size, these particles can remain suspended in the air for prolonged periods and easily penetrate the human body through the respiratory tract.

Common types of industrial dust include:

• Metal dust: Generated during metal machining, welding, and cutting.

• Cement and silica dust: Prevalent in construction and building material production.

• Wood dust: Found in the woodworking and furniture manufacturing industries.

• Coal and mineral dust: Common in mining and thermal power plants.

• Chemical dust: Present in the chemical, textile, and coating industries.

Crucially, fine particulate matter such as PM10 and PM2.5 can penetrate deeply into the alveoli, causing severe damage to the respiratory system.

Manufacturing activities in industrial zones generate massive volumes of dust. Depending on its origin and size, industrial dust can infiltrate deep into the respiratory tract, triggering numerous dangerous pathologies.

The Health Impacts of Industrial Dust in Manufacturing

1. Direct Impacts on the Respiratory System

Numerous studies in Vietnam indicate that workers frequently exposed to industrial dust have a significantly higher risk of developing respiratory diseases. Research conducted at a wind power construction site revealed:

• Workers exposed to dust are 2.42 times more likely to experience shortness of breath compared to the non-exposed group.

• This correlation remains statistically significant even after adjusting for smoking factors.

When industrial dust enters the respiratory tract, it can cause diseases such as:

• Chronic bronchitis

• Bronchial asthma

• Pharyngitis and tonsillitis

• Pneumoconiosis, particularly Silicosis

According to occupational health statistics, silicosis accounts for over 70% of all occupational diseases detected in Vietnam, primarily linked to silica dust exposure in the work environment.

2. Effects on Eyes, Skin, and Other Organs

Beyond the respiratory tract, industrial dust also causes irritation and damage to:

• Eyes: Conjunctivitis, dry eyes, and vision impairment.

• Skin: Contact dermatitis, allergies, and skin darkening.

• Digestive System: Occurs when dust settles on food and drinking water.

Particularly, highly toxic metal and chemical dust can lead to heavy metal accumulation in the body over long-term exposure, adversely affecting the liver, kidneys, and nervous system.

3. Increased Risk of Occupational Accidents and Reduced Productivity

A dusty work environment reduces visibility, increasing the risk of slips, falls, fires, explosions, and other occupational accidents. Furthermore, frequently exposed workers often experience symptoms such as:

• Chronic fatigue

• Shortness of breath during heavy physical labor

• Decreased ability to concentrate

This not only compromises individual health but also drastically reduces labor productivity and production quality.

Regulations on Industrial Dust in Manufacturing

Currently, manufacturing enterprises in Vietnam must strictly adhere to various regulations regarding industrial dust, notably:

1. Air Quality Regulations

Pursuant to QCVN 05:2023/BTNMT (or current technical regulations), the concentrations of Total Suspended Particulates (TSP) and fine dust (PM10, PM2.5) in the ambient air must remain within permissible limits to protect public health.

2. Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Regulations

Under the Law on Occupational Safety and Health, employers hold the responsibility to:

• Conduct risk assessments regarding industrial dust exposure.

• Provide appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).

• Organize periodic occupational environmental monitoring.

• Implement engineering controls to minimize dust generation.

3. Responsibilities for Dust Control and Treatment

Enterprises are strictly required to:

• Install standard-compliant dust extraction and filtration systems.

• Prevent dust from dispersing into the surrounding environment.

• Report to and undergo inspections by competent regulatory authorities.

Violating industrial dust regulations can result in administrative fines, suspension of operations, or forced remedial actions.

Effective Industrial Dust Control Solutions

To ensure legal compliance and safeguard workers' health, enterprises should:

• Invest in modern industrial dust extraction and treatment systems.

• Adopt low-dust generating production technologies.

• Organize periodic OSH training sessions.

• Equip workers with standard-compliant respirators and protective clothing.

• Maintain regular factory cleaning and housekeeping.

While industrial dust is an inevitable byproduct of manufacturing, it is entirely controllable if enterprises strictly adhere to legal regulations and implement appropriate solutions. Effective dust management not only helps businesses avoid legal risks but also plays a crucial role in protecting workers' health and fostering sustainable production.