An Assessment of the Environmental Risk, Health Risks, And Using an Engineering Control Approach for Cement Dust Pollution Among Ambuja Cement Workers

Abstract

The cement industry in India is a major economic sector, contributing to local pollution and socioeconomic development. However, modern companies have implemented controls to mitigate air pollution. These industries contribute to atmospheric degradation through resource depletion, energy use, and waste creation, resulting in greenhouse and acidifying gas emissions. Cement is a crucial material in civil engineering and construction.   The cement production process, which uses non-renewable resources, produces dust, smoke, gases, organic compounds, and toxic heavy metals, contributing to global warming and climate change. Cement dust pollution poses health hazards like hypersensitivity, skin irritation, respiratory issues, asthma, anaemia, headaches, stomach-aches, lung cancer, and increased risk of lung diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and inflammatory harm. The exposure can enter the bloodstream, impact organs like the lungs, heart, kidney, liver, spleen, and pancreas, leading to major occupational diseases. Uncontrolled exposure among cement handlers may exacerbate health-related complications. Cement industries require safety measures like PPE, training, and dust control methods. Regular maintenance, inspections, hazard communication, and emergency preparedness plans are crucial. Noise control, chemical handling, and a clean work environment are also essential. Regular audits help identify hazards and ensure compliance, promoting a safer workplace.