The Problem


Whether on a building site, in business premises or homes, drilling, milling, grinding, sanding and sawing often create very high dust emissions. Therefore, it is important to know the danger that exists. 
Dust ratings are from light to middle, through to highly dangerous and classified dusts.

The Danger

Without the relevant protective measures, the smallest of dust particles are breathed in. In the worst cases, these penetrate into the lung tissue, the alveoli, where they cause severe damage - even lung cancer.

The Solution

Timely avoidance of dust development and control through the use of the highly efficient Intex starmix® Dust Extractors, Intex® Giraffe Sanders and Intex® Dust Masks.

The Advantage

Intex Starmix® Dust Extractors remove dust particles directly from the zone, especially when connected to the Intex Giraffe Sanders. P2-Rated Intex® Dust Masks also minimise the inhalation of these harmful dusts.

The Harsh Facts

Every year, an estimated 600-900 people die from work-related health issues and a further 5,000-6,000 are hospitalised with cancer, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and other chronic illnesses from workplace exposure to airborne contaminants.
Regularly breathing construction dust can cause diseases like lung cancer, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD – which includes emphysema and other breathing difficulties), and silicosis.

What is COPD?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is an umbrella term used to describe progressive and (currently) incurable lung diseases including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, and refractory (non-reversible) asthma. This disease is characterized by increasing breathlessness. Fumes, chemicals and dust found in many work environments are contributing factors for many individuals who develop COPD.

It is estimated that between 700 and 1,000 workers die as a result of work-related disease every year.

About 80% of these deaths occur in men. About 30%-40% of these deaths are due to occupational cancer, mainly lung cancer.

Other occupational diseases representing a high burden include Ischaemic heart disease and respiratory diseases.

Dust class L (light)

These dusts have an occupational exposure limit value (AGW) of >1mg/m3. The filter material of vacuum cleaners of dust class L is tested. The maximum particle penetration grade is less than 1%. There are no special disposal requirements.

Dust class M (middle)

Here, dusts with an AGW of > 0,1mg/m3 are present. These vacuum cleaners are tested as complete units. The maximum particle penetration grade is less than 0.1%. Disposal of the dirt must be carried out low on dust.

Dust class M (middle)

Here, dusts with an AGW of > 0,1mg/m3 are present. These vacuum cleaners are tested as complete units. The maximum particle penetration grade is less than 0.1%. Disposal of the dirt must be carried out low on dust.

Dust Class H-Asbestos

This class corresponds to dust class H. The difference: an additional test for machines and devices that eliminates dust and is intended to collect and separate asbestos (in accordance with TRGS 519)

Silica Exposure

Silica is everywhere, and we are exposed to it every time we grind, sand or cut into a material that contains it. This includes sand, rock and cement, among others. Silica is a crystalline substance – if they get into your lungs, they could cause serious damage and lead to serious health problems. Learn more about silica exposure by clicking the video.

Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos is an inorganic compound that was widely used in buildings as insulation. It was also a major component of cement and was even woven into fabrics used for carpeting.

Asbestos has since been discovered to be highly toxic and harmful to your health. Learn more about the effects of asbestos, and hear it directly from those who have been exposed to it.

What is Asbestosis?

Asbestos is a fibrous mineral. Inhaling these particles could cause a type of fibrosis known as asbestosis. When the fibres enter the lungs, they cause the formation of scar tissue, which inhibits the organ's capacity to expand and contract. Asbestosis also greatly increases the risk of cancer. Learn more about how asbestosis occurs here.