Testing has revealed serious issues in quartz sand processing enterprises. First, the dust concentration in the workplace is significantly above national standards. In some cases, the total dust concentration exceeds the limit by as much as 269.38 times, with the highest reaching 1,089.60 times. The average dust concentration is over 286.70 times higher than the standard, and the peak recorded was 1,248.35 times. Second, the level of free silica in the dust is extremely dangerous for workers. In the tested companies, the free silica content in the dust at the workplace is generally above 80%, averaging 89.52%, and reaching as high as 96.47%. This poses a severe health risk, especially for long-term exposure.
Third, most quartz sand processing companies, particularly smaller ones with an annual output of less than 20,000 tons, use outdated technology. Their operations involve basic processes like crushing, grinding, screening, and packaging, all of which are conducted in open environments. These facilities are often small and poorly maintained, leading to massive dust emissions that severely affect air quality and worker health.
Fourth, on-site management in many processing plants is chaotic, especially in smaller enterprises. There are no proper dust control measures or protective equipment available. In some cases, even basic items like dust masks are missing. The work environment is heavily polluted, and site management is disorganized. In recent years, several outbreaks of silicosis caused by dust exposure have been reported, drawing significant public concern.
In 2003, 18 workers from Guizhou Province who worked at a quartz sand plant in Donghu Village, Xiawei Town, Xianyou County, Fujian Province, died from silicosis. In 2009, 12 migrant workers in Fengyang County, Anhui Province, contracted the disease after working at a quartz sand factory in Shuifu County, Yunnan Province. These tragic incidents prompted the Party Central Committee and the State Council to issue important instructions, emphasizing the urgent need for improved safety measures and stricter regulations. All regions must recognize the severity of this occupational hazard and take immediate action to improve working conditions and protect workers' health.
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