Potential Hazard: Dust From Rock Cutting

bnsaijim

As an industrial hygienist (controller of workplace hazards) of almost 20 years now... (eek)... I find the message anecdotal and far from scientifically relevant but at least one point is made worth noting PROTECT YOUR LUNGS.

My main point of contention is the "fresh rock dust" observation... but that can be argued privately if anyone likes.

The occasional rock cutting is not a great hazard in and of itself. One must look at it in the context of your lifetime exposure history and the general state of one's health. I.e., No sense getting a stress-related disorder worrying about that concrete you busted up last year...

But to provide useful protection information for bonsaists...

Wood dust (grinding, building stands), silica (grinding and cutting rocks and soil sifting or clay dust if you are making you own pots) all present possible lung hazards.

Most folks do not have access to industrial level facilities (but should if you are frequently exposed). Options:

Conduct these operations outside with the wind blowing at your back. Use “wet methods” whenever possible, i.e. the cutting oil method recommended.

Wear at least an N95 “dust mask” or better yet a “real” respirator with the magenta (pink) cartridges. If you are using solvents or pesticides use black or black and pink ones. If you have any reason to suspect heart or lung problems talk to your doctor before wearing one. A restriction on your breathing can lead to worse problems than dust exposure.

Follow the instructions for “negative and positive fit checks” that should come with the respirator. If you have a safety department at work ask if they can “FIT TEST” and show you proper use.

The idea that a household vacuum will provide real protection is ludicrous. The primary hazard (which I suspect is the root of the “fresh” vs. “old” rock dust observation) is the respirable particles- the ones that get WAY down into the lung tissue. The ones that will go right through any bag or accordion filter or “water trap”. Your average hoover or shop vac isn’t going to cut it. Nor is any alleged “HEPA” filtered unit- unless it’s industrial quality. All you’re going to do is spread things around and keep them suspended longer. If you choose to use a shop vac, buy some extra hose and shoot it out the window or door rather than back into your shop air.

Keep your work area clean- if you are creating these dust streams don’t sweep or vacuum- mop and wet-wipe. And don’t shake or blow the dust out of your clothes!

Lecture over.

Jim Stone, Insert Tons of Initials here
TX