Grain dust is made up of a complex mixture of organic material including:
- Husk particles
- Cellulose
- Starch granules.
Additional components may include plant material, mold, mold spores, insect parts, bacteria, and soil. Breathing the combination of materials can be hazardous to your health.
Exposure to lower concentrations of grain dust during normal types of work may include chest tightness, wheezing, a slightly sore or irritated throat, nasal and eye irritations, and a general feeling of being congested.
The key to protecting yourself against exposure to grain dust is to look for opportunities to minimize exposure. When possible, avoid using compressed air to clean in favor of brooms and shovels, and always make sure:
- Dust collection systems are working properly.
- Point sources of dust (holes, leaks, worn seals) are identified and repaired.
- Housekeeping is performed on a consistent basis.
- Covers and enclosures on grain handling equipment are in place and secured.
Workers can also protect themselves from grain dust by wearing particulate filtering facepiece respirators, often referred to as “dust masks.” Particulate respirators (N95) are the simplest and least expensive of the respirator types available.
Source: Joe Mlynek is president of Progressive Safety Services LLC, Gates Mills, OH: joe.mlynek@progressivesafety.us, and content creation expert for Safety Made Simple Inc., Olathe, KS; joe@safetymadesimple.com