Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Practice Test

What causes significant ill health to construction workers after asbestos?

1. Lead dust

2. Silica dust

3. Fiberglass particles

4. Chemical vapors

The correct answer is: Silica dust

Silica dust is well-recognized as a major health hazard for construction workers. When materials such as concrete, stone, or masonry are disturbed, fine silica particles are released into the air, which workers can inhale. Prolonged exposure to silica dust can lead to serious respiratory diseases, including silicosis, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and lung cancer. This makes silica dust a prevalent issue in the construction industry, comparable to the risks posed by asbestos. As for the other options, while they may also pose health risks, they do not have the same level of significant long-term impact on health as silica dust. Lead dust is primarily a concern in older buildings with lead paint and plumbing rather than structural materials. Fiberglass particles can cause irritation but are generally less hazardous in terms of long-term health issues compared to silica. Chemical vapors, while potentially harmful, depend greatly on the specific substances and have varying degrees of risk. In contrast, the dangers of silica dust in relation to long-term worker health make it the correct choice in this context.