What is Dust?

Dust - is a solid particulate with diameters of 0.1micron upwards, capable of temporary suspension in air. Dusts are usually derived from larger masses through the application of physical force.

Dust is further categorised depending on its size. The smaller the particle the deeper it penetrates into the lungs, where it may settle onto the lining, which are known as Respirable dusts. Larger particles, known as Total Inhalable Dusts, have detrimental effects on the upper respiratory tract, throat, nose and mouth.

Respirable dusts and Total Inhalable Dusts have their own Workplace Exposure Limit. Personal exposure must be kept below the following limits:

Specific hazardous substances have their own limits which are specified in EH40/2005.

Where no specific limit is listed for a substance, then the general dust limits above apply.