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 outlines the requirements for controlling exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust during construction activities. It applies to all tasks where materials containing silica are disturbed, such as cutting, grinding, drilling, and demolition. The goal is to minimize worker exposure and comply with OSHA regulations.

2. Definitions

Respirable Crystalline Silica Quartz, cristobalite, and/or tridymite contained in airborne particles that are determined to be respirable by a sampling device. [3]

Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) The concentration of respirable crystalline silica in air that exceeds 50 μg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour time-weighted average (TWA). Action Level A concentration of respirable crystalline silica of 25 μg/m3, calculated as an 8-hour TWA.

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

Ensure workers are trained and competent in safe work procedures.
Provide appropriate respiratory protection and ensure it is used correctly.
Monitor air quality and implement control measures to minimize dust exposure.

3.2 Workers

Use and maintain respiratory protection as required.
Participate in training and information sessions regarding silica hazards.
Follow safe work procedures and report any unsafe conditions.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

Hazard	Risk	Control Measures
Dust exposure from stationary masonry saws [3]	Inhalation of silica dust leading to silicosis and other respiratory illnesses.	Use stationary saws equipped with integrated water delivery systems to continuously feed water to the blade. Operate and maintain tools in accordance with manufacturer's instructions to minimize dust emissions.
Dust exposure from handheld power saws [3]	Inhalation of silica dust leading to respiratory irritation and long-term health effects.	Use handheld power saws equipped with integrated water delivery systems. When used indoors or in enclosed areas, provide respiratory protection with a minimum APF of 10. When used outdoors, respiratory protection is not required.
Dust exposure from dowel drilling rigs for concrete [5]	Elevated risk of silicosis due to high dust generation.	Use dowel drilling rigs equipped with a shroud around the drill bit and a dust collection system with a filter efficiency of 99% or greater. Use a HEPA-filtered vacuum when cleaning holes.
Dust exposure from jackhammers and handheld powered chipping tools [5]	Risk of acute and chronic respiratory diseases.	Use jackhammers and handheld powered chipping tools with water delivery systems that supply a continuous stream or spray of water at the point of impact. When used indoors or in an enclosed area, provide respiratory protection with a minimum APF of 10.
Exposure in mobile machine operation [1] [1]	Inhalation of silica dust despite being in an enclosed environment.	Isolate workers from the source of dust emissions using closed operation cabins with high-efficiency filters, positive pressure, and sealed door and window joints.
General dust accumulation in work areas [2]	Prolonged exposure to low levels of silica dust.	Use local exhaust ventilation to capture dust at the source. Ensure equipment is maintained and inspected regularly.

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

The correct PPE must be worn and maintained in good working order at all times when performing tasks that may generate silica dust.

Respirator: Provides respiratory protection against silica dust. Select a respirator with a minimum APF of 10, equipped with a 100 series or HEPA high-efficiency filter. Ensure proper fit and conduct fit testing as required. [1]
Eye Protection: Protects eyes from dust and debris. Use safety glasses with side shields or goggles, and a face shield if needed. [4]
Protective Clothing: Protects skin from dust exposure. Use coveralls that exclude silica dust and are maintained and cleaned in a safe manner. [2]
Gloves: Protects hands from contact with silica-containing materials. Use suitable protective gloves if risk of skin contact. [4]

Inspect respirators before each use for damage or defects. Clean and store respirators properly after each use. Replace filters regularly according to the manufacturer's instructions. Inspect protective clothing and gloves for tears or punctures. Replace damaged items immediately.

6. Equipment and Tools

All equipment and tools used in silica-related tasks must be inspected regularly and maintained in good working order.

HEPA Vacuum: Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter for cleaning work areas and equipment. [1]
Water Spray System: Use a water spray system to suppress dust during cutting, grinding, and drilling operations.
Dust Collection System: Ensure the dust collector has a filter with 99% or greater efficiency and a filter-cleaning mechanism [5]

Inspect water delivery systems for proper function before each use. Check hoses, nozzles, and pumps for leaks or damage. Ensure that dust collection systems are functioning correctly and that filters are clean and in good condition.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

Training and Competency: Workers must be trained and informed of the risks, prevention methods, and safe working methods before undertaking work involving materials containing crystalline silica. Training must cover the materials involved, health effects, safe working methods, and proper use of control equipment and PPE. [1] [1]

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

Pre-Job Briefing: Conduct a pre-job briefing to discuss the SWP, identify potential hazards, and review control measures. Ensure all workers understand the task, hazards, and required safety precautions.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

Work Area Preparation: Delimit the work area with hazard signs to ensure workers outside the area remain at a safe distance. Only workers wearing appropriate respiratory protection may access the work area. [1] [1]

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

1. Risk Assessment: Assess the work area for potential silica exposure. Identify tasks that may generate silica dust and determine the appropriate control measures.
2. Training and Competency: Ensure all workers have received adequate training on silica hazards, control measures, and the proper use of PPE.
3. Don PPE: Wear required PPE, including a respirator with a HEPA filter, safety glasses or goggles, protective clothing, and gloves.
4. Implement Engineering Controls: Use engineering controls such as water sprays, local exhaust ventilation, or enclosed cabs to minimize dust generation.
5. Safe Work Practices: Operate tools and equipment in accordance with manufacturer's instructions to minimize dust emissions.
6. Monitor Dust Levels: Continuously monitor the work area for dust levels. If dust levels are high, adjust control measures or stop work until the situation is corrected.
7. Cleaning Procedures: Clean the work area regularly using wet methods or a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter. Avoid dry sweeping or the use of compressed air. [1] [1]
8. Personal Hygiene: Before leaving the work area, remove work clothes and place them in a closed bag or clean them using a wet cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter. [1]
9. Waste Disposal: Properly dispose of silica-containing waste in closed containers that are clearly identified. [1]

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

Provide adequate ventilation, especially in confined areas, to minimize the risk of inhalation of dust. - Use mechanical ventilation or local exhaust ventilation. [6]
Regularly clean all places where silica dust may accumulate using vacuum methods wherever practicable. - Implement a cleaning schedule and ensure workers are trained on proper cleaning techniques. [2]
Isolate workers from the air containing silica dust when it is not reasonably practicable to prevent the entry of silica dust into the air. - Use enclosures or remote operation techniques. [2]
Ensure that equipment used to control dust is used and cared for in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. - Establish a maintenance schedule and provide training on proper equipment use. [1]
Warn workers of the danger to their health of inhaling silica dust and that the risk of injury is made greater by smoking. - Provide regular reminders and include warnings in training materials. [2]

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of a dust exposure incident, immediately move to a well-ventilated area. Seek medical attention if experiencing respiratory distress or other symptoms.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

Silica dust exposure to the eyes.: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention.
Severe respiratory distress.: Move to fresh air immediately. Use oxygen if available and trained. Seek medical attention.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

In case of emergency, contact the supervisor immediately. For serious injuries, call emergency services.

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

All incidents, including near misses and exposures, must be reported to the supervisor immediately. Complete an incident report form and submit it to the safety department.

The safety department will investigate all reported incidents to determine the root cause and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Approved by: [NAME AND POSITION]

Date: [APPROVAL DATE]