In the context of grain mills, what components make up grain dust?

Grain dust primarily consists of husk particles, cellulose hairs, and spores. When grains are processed in mills, the outer layers of grains, known as husks, are often detached, creating fine particles that contribute to dust. Additionally, cellulose hairs from the plant material and spores originating from fungi or bacteria that may be present in the stored grains also become part of the dust. This mixture poses potential health hazards, such as respiratory issues for workers if inhaled, making it critical to understand the composition of grain dust in safety training and protocols.

The other choices do not accurately represent the primary components of grain dust in a milling context. Pure flour and sugar are not typical constituents of dust but rather products of grain processing. Metal shavings and sawdust are more relevant to woodworking or metalworking environments. Pesticide residues can be a concern in storage and agricultural practices, but they are not a primary component of the dust generated during milling operations. Understanding the correct composition of grain dust is essential for implementing effective safety measures in grain mills.