A risk assessment for Sage Creek needs to consider several potential hazards, primarily focusing on the materials used in construction and potential exposure routes.

Hazards:

1. Crystalline Silica Exposure: Several documents indicate the presence of crystalline silica (Quartz) in various products such as ceiling panels 1, 2, floor underlayments 3, 4, 8, 11, cement roof boards [1], sands and gravel [2], and floor patches [3]. Inhalation of crystalline silica dust can lead to silicosis, lung cancer, and other respiratory issues 6, 15, 16. Repeated and prolonged exposure increases the risk 15, 16.
2. Skin and Eye Irritation: Products containing Portland cement and calcium oxide can cause skin and eye irritation or serious damage 3, 4, 5, 8, 11, 16, 20. Wet cement products can cause caustic burns [4].
3. Respiratory Irritation: Inhalation of dust from various products like ceiling panels, floor underlayments, and cement can cause respiratory irritation 15, 16.
4. Exposure to Other Hazardous Substances: Some products contain substances like Calcium sulfate hemihydrate, Cellulose, Kaolin, Limestone, Perlite and Starch 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 11, 14 which can cause irritation. Some products may contain trace amounts of chemicals known to cause cancer or reproductive harm 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 14, 15, 16, 19, 20.

Risk Assessment:

• Likelihood: The likelihood of exposure depends on the task, duration, and control measures in place. Activities that generate dust, such as cutting, grinding, or mixing, increase the likelihood of inhalation and skin/eye contact.
• Severity: The severity ranges from mild irritation to serious health effects like silicosis or cancer, depending on the substance and exposure level.

Control Measures:

1. Elimination/Substitution: Where feasible, substitute materials containing crystalline silica with safer alternatives. This may not always be possible, but should be considered.
2. Engineering Controls:
   • Use local exhaust ventilation to capture dust at the source 13, 18.
   • Employ wet cutting or grinding methods to reduce dust generation.
   • Ensure adequate general ventilation in the work area 9, 10, 13.
3. Administrative Controls:
   • Implement a comprehensive respiratory protection program, including fit testing, training, and maintenance 9, 10, 18.
   • Provide training on the hazards of crystalline silica and other materials, proper handling techniques, and the use of PPE.
   • Implement good housekeeping practices to minimize dust accumulation.
   • Rotate job assignments to limit exposure duration.
4. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
   • Wear appropriate NIOSH-approved respirators when engineering controls are not sufficient 9, 10, 13, 18.
   • Use safety goggles or face shields to prevent eye contact 9, 10, 13.
   • Wear chemical-resistant gloves and clothing to minimize skin contact 9, 10, 13.

Monitoring and Review:

• Conduct regular air monitoring to assess the effectiveness of control measures.
• Perform routine inspections of equipment and work practices.
• Review and update the risk assessment periodically or when there are changes in materials, equipment, or processes.
• Provide medical surveillance for workers potentially exposed to crystalline silica, including periodic lung function tests and chest X-rays.

Specific Recommendations:

• Develop a written exposure control plan that addresses crystalline silica and other hazardous materials.
• Ensure that all workers have access to and understand the SDSs for the materials they are working with.
• Provide readily accessible eyewash stations and safety showers 7, 13.
• Encourage workers to report any symptoms of irritation or other health concerns promptly.
• Use a non-alkaline soap for hand washing [5].

By implementing these control measures and maintaining diligent monitoring and review procedures, the risks associated with working at Sage Creek can be significantly reduced.