Pneumatic tools killed thousands in Barre, VT

["Simon Brown" <moonsong@zzzzzzzzzzzzzzz>]

Thanks very much for that link- it's a terrible story.

Our TAFE Stonemasonry workshop has 12 overhead dust extractors and a
complete wet area, but it is difficult to get the message across. Some
Stonemasonry factories I visit produce so much dust that it catches in your
throat from across the street. A growing problem is the use of composite
material like Silestone and Cesarstone. MSDS from the manufacturers stress
the relative safety of the styrene in the epoxy resin matrix, but the silica
hazard still remains. There are many young adult workers here, and by the
time they develop enough safety sense, they decide to get out of the dusty
trade.

There is a lot to be said about choosing PPE carefully and adjusting it so
it is comfortable to wear. I prefer the heavy-duty folding paper masks with
a valved outlet low down so my escaping breath doesn't fog my glasses. I
know they are not as effective as the silicone respirator, but being more
comfortable to wear, are more likely to be worn. The silicone masks get so
hot and sweaty, it's a relief to take them off. A paper mask absorbs
moisture and I don't notice that I'm wearing it.

The early Stonemasons' union in Australia (formed in 1853) was instrumental
in achieving the 8 hour day (48 hour week) in 1856. A banner was carried in
8 hour day celebrations
http://www.teachingheritage.nsw.edu.au/c_building/banner_meta7.html held
yearly on May day from 1886, this banner dating from the early 20th century.
It's now on permanent display at Trades Hall in Sydney.

Did you see the Barre article in Oct 2003 National Geographic?
http://magma.nationalgeographic.com/ngm/0310/feature6/

Simon