Safe Work Procedure: Silica Dust Control

Document Number: [SWP-NUMBER] Revision Date: [DATE] Next Review Date: [NEXT REVIEW DATE] Department: [DEPARTMENT NAME]

1. Scope

This Safe Work Procedure (SWP) outlines the necessary safety precautions and control measures to minimize silica dust exposure during tasks that involve materials containing crystalline silica. It applies to all workers, contractors, and visitors who may be exposed to silica dust on [COMPANY NAME] job sites. This procedure covers tasks such as cutting, grinding, drilling, and demolition of concrete, masonry, and other silica-containing materials. This SWP aims to protect individuals from the health hazards associated with inhaling respirable crystalline silica 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20.

2. Definitions

Crystalline Silica: A basic component of soil, sand, granite, and many other minerals. Quartz is the most common form of crystalline silica 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 20.

Respirable Crystalline Silica: Very small particles of crystalline silica that are small enough to inhale deeply into the lungs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20.

PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit): The maximum amount of a substance a worker can be exposed to, as set by OSHA. For respirable crystalline silica, the PEL is 50 µg/m³ (micrograms per cubic meter) as an 8-hour time-weighted average 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20.

Engineering Controls: Measures implemented to isolate workers from hazards, such as using ventilation systems or wet methods to control dust 2, 3, 6, 14, 17, 20.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure that workers are trained and competent in silica dust control measures.
Provide appropriate PPE and ensure its proper use.
Implement and maintain engineering controls to minimize silica dust exposure.
Conduct regular inspections of work areas to identify and correct hazards.

3.2 Workers

Participate in required training programs.
Use all control measures and PPE as instructed.
Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to the supervisor immediately.
Follow safe work procedures and practices.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

Assist in the development and implementation of silica dust control programs.
Conduct workplace monitoring for silica dust levels.
Investigate incidents and recommend corrective actions.
Provide guidance on health and safety matters related to silica dust exposure.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Inhalation of respirable crystalline silica	Silicosis, lung cancer, other respiratory diseases	Use engineering controls (e.g., wet cutting, ventilation), wear appropriate respirators 2, 3, 6, 14, 17, 20
Skin contact with silica-containing materials	Skin irritation, dermatitis	Wear gloves and protective clothing 3, 6, 14, 15, 18, 20
Eye contact with silica dust	Eye irritation, damage	Wear safety glasses or goggles 3, 6, 14, 15, 18, 20
Dry sweeping or compressed air cleaning	Increased airborne dust levels	Use HEPA vacuums or wet methods for cleaning 4, 9, 19

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Proper PPE must be worn to minimize exposure to silica dust. Inspect all PPE before use to ensure it is in good condition [1].

Respirator: Use a NIOSH-approved respirator (e.g., N95, P100) appropriate for the task and dust levels. Ensure proper fit testing and training 2, 6, 10, 18, 20.
Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses with side shields or goggles to protect eyes from dust and debris 3, 6, 14, 15, 18, 20.
Gloves: Wear waterproof gloves to prevent skin contact with silica-containing materials 3, 6, 14, 15, 18, 20.
Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to minimize skin exposure. Use disposable coveralls when dust exposure is high 3, 6, 14, 15, 18, 20.
Hearing Protection: If the equipment used creates high noise levels, wear appropriate hearing protection.

6. Equipment and Tools

Use the right equipment for the job and ensure it is properly maintained to minimize dust generation.

Wet Cutting Saws: Use saws equipped with integrated water delivery systems to suppress dust during cutting 2, 3, 6, 14, 17, 20.
HEPA Vacuums: Use vacuums with HEPA filters for cleaning dust and debris 4, 9, 19.
Drills with Dust Collection: Use drills with integrated dust collection systems 2, 3, 6, 14, 17, 20.
Ventilation Systems: Use local exhaust ventilation to capture dust at the source 2, 3, 6, 14, 17, 20.
Water Sprayers: Use water sprayers to dampen surfaces and materials before and during work to reduce dust generation.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Workers must complete a silica awareness training program.
Workers must be trained on the proper use of PPE, engineering controls, and safe work practices.
Ensure workers understand the health hazards associated with silica exposure.

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Conduct a pre-job briefing to discuss the tasks, hazards, and control measures.
Review this SWP and ensure all workers understand their roles and responsibilities.
Identify potential sources of silica exposure and discuss how to minimize dust generation.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Establish a designated work area and restrict access to authorized personnel.
Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area 2, 3, 6, 14, 17, 20.
Use barriers or enclosures to contain dust within the work area.
Wet down surfaces and materials to reduce dust generation.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

Step 1: Assessing the Task and Identifying Silica-Containing Materials

Review the task to determine if silica-containing materials will be disturbed.
Check Safety Data Sheets (SDS) to identify materials containing crystalline silica [1].
Evaluate the potential for dust exposure based on the task and materials involved.
Sub-step 1.1: Review project plans and specifications.
Sub-step 1.2: Inspect materials to be used.
Sub-step 1.3: Consult with the supervisor or health and safety representative if unsure.
Safety considerations: Correctly identifying silica-containing materials is crucial for implementing appropriate control measures.

Step 2: Implementing Engineering Controls

Use wet cutting methods when sawing or cutting concrete and masonry 2, 3, 6, 14, 17, 20.
Use drills with dust collection systems when drilling concrete or masonry 2, 3, 6, 14, 17, 20.
Use local exhaust ventilation to capture dust at the source 2, 3, 6, 14, 17, 20.
Ensure that all equipment is properly maintained and in good working order.
Sub-step 2.1: Set up wet cutting equipment or dust collection systems.
Sub-step 2.2: Ensure ventilation systems are functioning properly.
Sub-step 2.3: Regularly inspect and maintain equipment.
Safety considerations: Engineering controls are the primary means of reducing silica dust exposure.

Step 3: Using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Wear a properly fitted NIOSH-approved respirator 2, 6, 10, 18, 20.
Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect eyes 3, 6, 14, 15, 18, 20.
Wear gloves and protective clothing to prevent skin contact 3, 6, 14, 15, 18, 20.
Ensure PPE is clean and in good condition before use [1].
Sub-step 3.1: Inspect respirator for damage and proper fit.
Sub-step 3.2: Wear appropriate eye and skin protection.
Sub-step 3.3: Follow manufacturer's instructions for PPE use and maintenance.
Safety considerations: PPE provides an additional layer of protection when engineering controls are not sufficient to reduce exposure to acceptable levels.

Step 4: Performing the Task Safely

Minimize dust generation by using appropriate techniques and equipment.
Avoid dry sweeping or using compressed air for cleaning 4, 9, 19.
Use HEPA vacuums or wet methods for cleaning dust and debris 4, 9, 19.
Work upwind whenever possible to avoid breathing dust.
Sub-step 4.1: Use tools and equipment as intended by the manufacturer.
Sub-step 4.2: Control dust at the source using wet methods or dust collection systems.
Sub-step 4.3: Regularly clean the work area to prevent dust accumulation.
Safety considerations: Proper work practices are essential for minimizing dust exposure.

Step 5: Clean-Up and Disposal

Clean the work area using HEPA vacuums or wet methods 4, 9, 19.
Dispose of waste materials in sealed containers.
Decontaminate tools and equipment before storing.
Remove and launder or dispose of contaminated clothing.
Sub-step 5.1: Vacuum or wet-wipe surfaces to remove dust.
Sub-step 5.2: Dispose of waste in accordance with local regulations.
Sub-step 5.3: Wash hands and face thoroughly after completing the task 4, 9, 19.
Safety considerations: Proper clean-up and disposal prevent the spread of silica dust and protect workers and others from exposure.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Avoid Dry Sweeping: Do not dry sweep or use compressed air for cleaning, as this can create airborne dust 4, 9, 19.
Use Water: Use water spray or wet methods to keep dust down during cutting, grinding, and drilling 2, 3, 6, 14, 17, 20.
Ventilation: Work in well-ventilated areas to minimize dust exposure 2, 3, 6, 14, 17, 20.
Hygiene: Wash hands and face thoroughly after working with silica-containing materials 4, 9, 19.
PPE Maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain PPE to ensure it is in good working condition [1].

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In case of a medical emergency, call [EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBER] immediately.
Provide first aid as necessary.
Ensure the affected worker receives medical attention.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Eye Exposure: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention [2].
Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately. If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen and seek medical attention [2].
Skin Contact: Wash affected area with soap and water. If irritation persists, seek medical attention [2].

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

Emergency Services: [EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBER]
Supervisor: [SUPERVISOR PHONE NUMBER]
Health and Safety Representative: [H&S PHONE NUMBER]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards to the supervisor immediately.
Complete an incident report form and submit it to the health and safety department.
Participate in the investigation to determine the root cause of the incident and recommend corrective actions.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION] Date: [APPROVAL DATE]