pub_7aecf2a44b38ce64bb32cc03d25ea1e2 Is Your Heavy Machine Cabin Really Protecting You from Silica Dust?
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Is Your Heavy Machine Cabin Really Protecting You from Silica Dust?

Here's How to Check.


Silica dust is one of the most serious health risks on worksites such as mines, tunnels, and construction sites. Long-term exposure can cause severe illnesses like silicosis, COPD, and even lung cancer. Many operators mistakenly think that closing the cabin doors and windows is sufficient protection. Unfortunately, without proper filtration and pressurization, you're still breathing dangerous dust.


The AS/NZS ISO 23875:2023 standard addresses this critical issue by specifying air quality requirements for heavy machinery cabins. But how can you ensure your cabin is genuinely meeting the standard?

Heavy equipment operators can take proactive steps to safe guard the air quality in their cabin
Heavy equipment operators can take proactive steps to safe guard the air quality in their cabin

Here are five quick, essential checks you can do yourself:

  1. Cabin Monitor Check: Ensure there is a functioning LCD screen in your cabin that shows COâ‚‚ levels and pressure. Missing or faulty monitors mean non-compliance.

  2. Quick Pressure Test: Close all windows and doors, turn off HVAC, start your machine, and observe the cabin pressure gauge. It should quickly reach above 20 Pa. Lower than this indicates insufficient protection.

  3. Baseline Test Report: Check your operator’s manual for the ISO 23875 baseline test report covering CO₂, pressure, leakage, and decay tests. Missing documentation implies uncertainty about cabin compliance.

  4. Fresh Air Filter Inspection: Carefully remove the fresh air filter and inspect the clean side of the filter, seal. Dust on the clean side of the filter seal indicates dirty air is bypassing the filter and going directly into the cab.

  5. Filter Verification: Locate the ISO 23875 baseline test report in your operator’s manual. This document verifies the filters used for compliance. Ensure the fresh air filter and recirculation filter part numbers match the part numbers in the baseline test report. Avoid using potentially ineffective knock-off filters.


Don't assume safety—take five minutes to conduct these checks. If issues arise, promptly inform your supervisor. Protect your health by ensuring your cabin keeps dust out and clean air in.


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