Abstract
A survey was made to appraise the severity of silica dust exposures in the monument industry in Ohio. A total of 35 plants were covered. Dust exposures associated with abrasive blasting, a universal and the most important monument building operation, were moderate or insignificant in a majority of the plants. In over 30% of the establishments, however, dust levels were excessive. Generally low blasting room ventilation rates, affording less than 5 air changes per minute, and poor dust control equipment maintenance and housekeeping practices were noted. Dust suppression measures are given.