Home / Environment / Quarry Dust Chokes Neighborhoods: Health Fears Rise
Quarry Dust Chokes Neighborhoods: Health Fears Rise
3 Mar
Summary
- Neighbors battle constant dust from a nearby quarry crushing facility.
- Fine dust particles pose serious, irreversible lung damage risks.
- Residents demand dust control measures like screens and sprinklers.
In a Westmoreland County neighborhood, residents are facing a continuous battle against dust emanating from a nearby quarry. The Derry Stone SMT site's new crushing facility, located approximately 1,000 feet from homes, is allegedly blanketing properties in fine sandstone dust.
Residents like Charlie Sherba describe the dust as a daily nuisance, coating everything from cars to porches. Concerns have escalated to potential health risks, with individuals experiencing breathing difficulties. Experts emphasize that the invisible, fine particles are particularly dangerous, capable of causing irreversible lung inflammation, scarring, and even cancer.
Residents are advocating for improved dust suppression methods, including working sprinklers and dust screens, which are reportedly used in other regions. They have reached out to the quarry and regulatory bodies, seeking assurances and action to mitigate the ongoing dust exposure and protect their well-being.
