The decision this case can inform
Use this record when designing a task-based dust survey or checking whether area averages are hiding raw-material exposure hotspots.
Historical NIOSH field survey of one operating plant. The measurements are source evidence for the sampled jobs and conditions, not a current exposure or compliance determination.
What the public record actually establishes
- F1
NIOSH collected 65 personal samples across the Cementon operation.
- F2
Three personal samples exceeded the nuisance-dust standard in force at the time of the survey.
- F3
Quartz was detected in 17% of respirable samples, principally in work associated with raw materials.
- F4
The report linked control attention to material-transfer and cleanup locations rather than treating the plant as one exposure zone.
Facts and reported results are kept separate from the lesson a plant may choose to test.
Operating context
NIOSH evaluated dust exposure across a Portland cement facility.
Intervention or finding
Field sampling identified task and area exposure patterns; NIOSH recommended maintained engineering controls and improved cleanup.
Documented result
3 of 65 personal samples exceeded the then nuisance-dust standard; quartz was detected in 17% of respirable samples, mainly around raw materials.
Plant interpretation
Map exposure by task and material pathway; verify controls at conveyors, crushers, and cooler pits.
Transfer boundary
Historical limits and sampling terminology; not a current compliance determination.
Questions to verify at your plant
These are decision checks, not operating instructions. Resolve them through local risk assessment, technical review, and authorization.
- 01
Which jobs disturb raw feed, quarry material, clinker dust, or settled deposits at your plant?
- 02
Does the sampling plan follow workers and tasks, or rely mainly on fixed-area readings?
- 03
Are conveyor, crusher, transfer-point, and cooler-pit controls verified under their highest-emission operating states?
- 04
Which current occupational limits and analytical methods govern the local assessment?