Occupational Exposure to Particles in Quarries and Its Effects on worker’s Health

Introduction: The exploitation of quarries is considered a high-risk activity, in which workers are exposed to risks that can influence both their health and their physical integrity. Aims: Was to assess occupational exposure to particles, namely inhalable and respirable particles during working hours in a quarry, and how they affect or can affect the health of workers. Material and Methods: The first moment being the evaluation of inhalable and respirable particles, in which measurements were carried out by dosimetry to seven workers. The second moment was the application of a questionnaire to the workers regarding the work environment to which they are exposed, and the symptoms related to it. Results: In all jobs, the concentration values of inhalable and respirable particles presented values below the legally established value. Regarding the symptoms that can commonly be presented, the most verified were headache, followed by fatigue and itching, burning sensation or irritation in the eyes. Discussion/Conclusion: Although the particulate concentration values are below the exposure limit value, it is advisable that the employer continues to carry out monitoring to prevent the health of workers, as particulate matter can, in the long term, cause occupational diseases at the forum level respiratory.