Exposure to construction dust and health impacts – A review. (January 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wang, Mingpu; Yao, Gang; Sun, Yujia; Yang, Yang; Deng, Rui
• Is Part Of: Chemosphere. Volume 311:Part 1(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-01
• Subjects: Construction dust -- Exposure characteristics -- Exposed population -- Potential health hazards -- Health risk assessment; Pollution -- Periodicals; Pollution -- Physiological effect -- Periodicals; Environmental sciences -- Periodicals; Atmospheric chemistry -- Periodicals; 551.511
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136990
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0045-6535

Abstract

Abstract: Construction dust contributes a significant proportion of airborne particulate matter, affecting the health of its surrounding environment and population. Construction workers are normally exposed to dust at high levels and bear severe health risks. The existing articles concerning the exposure and health impacts of construction dust are limited, but this research field has received more and more attention. This work reviews literature in the field and tries to systematically assess the current research state. Here, we review (1) methods used to monitor or sample construction dust; (2) main characteristics of construction dust, including dust classification, exposed populations, and exposure concentrations; (3) potential health hazards and (4) health risk assessment of construction dust. From existing literature, the exposure concentrations of different types and sources of construction dust are usually the focus of attention, while its particle size distribution and chemical composition are rarely mentioned. The classification and characteristics of populations exposed to construction dust ought to be a key consideration but not clear enough so far. There still lacks in-depth study of health hazards and systematic assessment of risks associated with construction dust. In future, it is valuable to develop utility instruments to precisely monitor construction dust. Besides, control means to reduce the pollution of construction dust deserve more studies. Health hazards of construction dust should be verified by biological experiments. Moreover, emerging algorithm models should be utilized in the risk assessment. The findings will help gain a better understanding of construction dust exposure and associated health risks. Graphical abstract: Image 1 Highlights: Chronic respiratory diseases are closely related to exposure to construction dust. Study on physicochemical characteristics and control means of dust is not enough. Existing construction dust monitoring is insufficient in accuracy and convenience. Health hazards of construction dust lack biological experimental verification. Current risk assessment fails to use emerging algorithm model or build a database.