Effects of dust exposure and inhalation to the human body

Dust is everywhere. And there's probably no one in the world who doesn't find it annoying. But unfortunately, it's more than that: it's a real threat to your health.

• Dust and the manufacturing industry: Inseparable
• The top 3 health risks due to dust exposure
• Dust – The silent saboteur taking a toll on your company

Dust: Everyone breathes it in, few know the risks

Where there's work, there's dust exposure. And not just a little.

But fine dust particles can penetrate deep into the lungs and even spread through the bloodstream, making dust exposure and dust inhalation highly unhealthy.

Even with regular cleaning of production and warehouse halls, it's practically impossible to completely avoid dust inhalation. Once it settles on the floor, machines, or equipment, it's already too late.


Dust can make your employees chronically ill

That's right: dust inhalation doesn't just cause a scratchy throat or a mild, dry cough. Without effective countermeasures, you risk your employees eventually suffering from serious illnesses. From respiratory and skin diseases to cancer.

1. The lungs: A dust magnet

Dust inhalation is not just annoying; it can be incredibly dangerous. Fine dust particles are so small that they can easily pass through the airway and settle on the lungs. There, they can cause shortness of breath, asthma, and even deadly lung diseases.

But that's not all: Once dust has made its way into the lungs, it's not far from entering the bloodstream. From there, it can reach every other organ, including the brain. According to a study by Utrecht University, exposure to fine dust can shorten life expectancy by up to 8.6 months.

Did you know? Some types of dust (like asbestos) are so unhealthy and dangerous that they are classified as carcinogenic.


2. The brain: What dust does to our thinking centre

Studies have shown that high dust exposure can increase the risk of Alzheimer's Disease and dementia – diseases that are only increasing in frequency. According to the National Institute of Health, higher concentrations of PM_2.5 sized dust particles (classic fine dust) are associated with a higher number of dementia cases. Researchers estimate that up to 188,000 cases of dementia per year could be attributed to PM_2.5.

Did you know? Fine dust particles pass through the blood-brain barrier into the centre of our bodies, the brain.


3. The skin: Large target area, many side effects

Dust in the air eventually settles. In addition to the respiratory system of your employees, their skin provides a large target area for dust. The consequences range from allergic reactions and itching to skin cancer. This is also confirmed by the American Skin Association, which specifically refers to working with chemicals or metals.

Did you know? Dust can even worsen acne. And who wants pimples from dust? Exactly.

As a company, the well-being of your employees is of utmost importance. You are aware (if not already) that dust exposure can pose a real risk. And when your employees' health is compromised, the productivity of your company takes a nosedive.

But don't worry, we have an answer: Zehnder Clean Air Solutions. We are the experts in combating excess dust exposure and dust inhalation.

Our air purification systems serve as bodyguards for your team's health and can boost your productivity.

Every particle of dust poses a threat to your staff. Zehnder Clean Air Solutions is here to help you eradicate dust in your working environment with our state-of-the-art air purifiers.