Dust in aggregate production and application processes is both the invisible hero of the work and the least discussed risk topic. From crushers to screen sets, from packaging to spreading at the site, fine particles dispersed into the air at all stages, if not properly controlled, can affect respiratory health in the long term. In our three generations of natural stone supply accumulation, while delivering calcite aggregate originating from Saraylar (Marmara Island) from solution partner processing plants to the construction, concrete and landscape sectors, we observe that dust control has turned into a practical discipline on both the production and application sides. In this article, we share a supplier perspective on the correct reading of silicosis risk, personal protective equipment selection, water curtain and vacuum systems and current occupational health standards.
The basis of silicosis risk lies in crystalline silica, i.e. respirable quartz particles. At this point, there is a significant difference between natural stone types. Calcite and dolomite-based marble aggregate is, by its nature, predominantly calcium carbonate and has low crystalline silica content. White dolomite aggregate extracted from calcite deposits in the Saraylar region is evaluated with quartz content below one percent in most batches. In contrast, in granite, quartzite and some basalt-derived aggregates, the crystalline silica ratio can rise to twenty to thirty percent. This difference does not mean that calcite aggregate is absolutely risk-free in terms of silicosis, but it significantly lowers the risk profile compared to granite and similar high silica content aggregates. However, long-term dust exposure keeps topics such as chronic bronchitis, occupational asthma and general lung function loss on the agenda. Therefore, in every type of aggregate, dust control should be addressed as a fundamental occupational health discipline, independent of the silica percentage of the aggregate.
On the production plant side, the first link in dust control is the crusher outlets. In primary and secondary crushers, the dust cloud that occurs when the stone is broken concentrates around the crusher cabin. At solution partner processing plants, water spray nozzles come into play at this point. Spraying water in the form of fine droplets into the crusher chamber and the output conveyor prevents dust particles from remaining suspended in the air and ensures they fall to the ground as mass. The amount of water is used in measured doses, because excessive water increases the moisture content of the aggregate and causes problems in the subsequent screening stage. Correct calibration is one of the indicators that shows the technical maturity of an aggregate plant.
