Hazardous exposures and engineering controls in the landscaping services industry

Published by Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene

This study on landscapers' occupational exposures found significant overexposure to noise and respirable crystalline silica (RCS), especially during hardscaping tasks, despite existing engineering controls. Eighty workers at varied sites were monitored, showing noise levels frequently exceeding safety limits, while CO levels remained safe. Fuel-powered tools produced more noise and CO compared to battery-powered versions. Engineering controls could reduce RCS exposure, but additional protection might be necessary. Read the study here.