Construction Skills Certification Scheme (CSCS) Practice Test

A construction worker exposed to concrete dust for a long time is most likely to suffer from which condition?

1. Fatigue

2. Shortness of breath

3. Skin irritation

4. Joint pain

The correct answer is: Shortness of breath

A construction worker who is exposed to concrete dust over an extended period is most likely to experience shortness of breath. This is due to the inhalation of fine particles found in concrete dust, which can lead to respiratory issues. Prolonged exposure can cause irritation of the lungs and bronchial tubes, resulting in breathing difficulties and conditions like pneumoconiosis, chronic bronchitis, or other lung diseases. Shortness of breath is a significant concern for construction workers, as breathing in silica and other harmful dust can severely impact pulmonary function. While fatigue, skin irritation, and joint pain are also health issues that can be associated with construction work, they do not directly correlate with the specific hazards of concrete dust exposure in the way that respiratory problems do. Hence, the correct answer highlights the critical link between concrete dust exposure and respiratory health risks in the construction environment.