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Susan Woskie, PhD
University of Massachusetts, Lowell
Ph: 978-934-3295
Email: Susan_Woskie@uml.edu
Year One:
Since silica dust and noise continue to present serious risks to construction
workers, the researchers began partnering
with two contractors to evaluate the effectiveness of proven controls.
For a demolition contractor, the team reviewed two configurations of local
exhaust ventilation controls used on a
pneumatic needle gun scaler for scarifying concrete floors on a new building.
Preliminary evaluation of the data indicates the use of an enclosing cowl on
the needle gun reduces dust to a greater degree than an off-gun arrangement.
With the second contractor who does concrete repairs on bridges,
the team is evaluating new technology, including a custom dust
control method. These results will be compared to their current
dust control methods.
In both situations, the researchers conducted on-site interviews to collect data on the incentives and barriers to using various dust control systems. They are weighing the pros and cons of systems
and will work with the contractor on improvements and innovations based on quantitative sampling results and the qualitative information from
interviews.
Noise Control
Both contractors have agreed to measuring noise exposures on their sites. So far, the team has identified one problem and the contractor has devised a practical solution.
Research Team and Partners: Susan Shepherd, PhD, University of Massachusetts, Lowell; Suffolk Construction, Aulson Company, SPS New England.
Abstract:
The concept of “research to practice” informs us that a successful control intervention does not just remove dust or reduce noise in the laboratory or during its first implementation onto a construction site. It is also used regularly, maintained and becomes part of the normal work process. This type of control also requires on-going management support and worker acceptance to be effective.
Silica dust, generated by demolition and concrete finishing operations, can be controlled on construction sites through the effective use of engineering controls, such as using water and local exhaust ventilation on tools. Nevertheless, these controls are not used on most worksites. Noise has been a persistent and well-documented hazard in construction. However, we have yet to gain a foothold in the effective control of noise exposures to construction workers.
The successful use of controls on construction sites is determined by factors which can be identified so that the effective use of engineering and/or administrative controls in construction can become sustainable. This project partners with demolition and concrete contractors, unions and tool manufacturers to identify and overcome obstacles to the successful implementation of controls for noise and silica dust on construction sites. The focus for the control of dust and silica exposures will be on implementation of local exhaust ventilation and water suppression for powered hand tools and demolition equipment. Efforts to reduce the noise exposures generated by these tools will focus on implementing a “Buy-Quiet” and a “Noise Perimeter Zone” approach.
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