Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Practice Test 2025 – All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification Exam!

The inhalation of construction dust, particularly silica dust, can lead to a serious lung disease known as silicosis. Silicosis is caused by the long-term exposure to fine particles of silica, a common component in materials such as sand, stone, and concrete used in the construction industry. When these tiny particles are inhaled, they can accumulate in the lungs and lead to inflammation and scarring, which ultimately impairs lung function.

Silicosis is characterized by symptoms that include coughing, shortness of breath, and a higher susceptibility to lung infections. It is classified as a progressive disease, meaning that it may worsen over time, particularly if exposure to silica continues. Given the nature of construction work and the prevalence of silica in many materials, workers in this industry are at increased risk of developing silicosis if appropriate protective measures, such as respiratory protection and dust control methods, are not implemented.

While other conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and pneumonia can also be associated with inhalation of various types of dust or other irritants, silicosis is distinctly linked to the specific inhalation of silica dust, making it the most relevant answer in the context of construction dust exposure.