Sandblasting operations require strict safety procedures and PPE to mitigate respiratory hazards and comply with OSHA regulations. Abrasive blasting can generate high levels of dust that may contain hazardous materials like silica, lead, and toxic metals. [1]

To protect workers, employers must implement engineering and administrative controls, provide appropriate PPE, and conduct thorough training. [2]

Engineering controls are the primary means of reducing exposure to airborne hazards. [2]

Key engineering controls include:

• Substitution: Use less toxic abrasive materials such as ice cubes, dry ice, plastic bead media, sponge, sodium bicarbonate, ground walnut shells, ground corn cob, or high-pressure water.
• Isolation and Containment: Use barriers, curtain walls, blast rooms, or blast cabinets to isolate the blasting operation from other workers. Keep coworkers away from the blaster.
• Ventilation: Use exhaust ventilation systems in containment structures to capture dust.

[2] [2] [2] Administrative controls and personal hygiene practices are also crucial:

• Perform routine cleanup using wet methods or HEPA filtered vacuuming to minimize dust accumulation.
• Avoid using compressed air for cleaning as it creates dust.
• Clean and decontaminate tarps and equipment on the worksite.
• Schedule blasting when the fewest workers are at the site.
• Avoid blasting in windy conditions.
• Prohibit eating, drinking, or using tobacco products in blasting areas.
• Provide wash stations for workers to wash their hands and face.
• Vacuum or remove contaminated work clothes before eating, drinking, or smoking.
• Provide facilities for showers and changing areas with separate storage for street clothes and protective clothing.

[2] [2] [2] [2] [3] When engineering and administrative controls are insufficient, respiratory protection is mandatory. [2]

Required PPE includes:

• Type CE NIOSH-certified blasting airline respirator with a positive pressure blasting helmet that covers the head, neck, and shoulders.
• Hearing protection.
• Eye and face protection.
• Helmet.
• Leather gloves that protect to the full forearm and aprons (or coveralls).
• Safety shoes or boots.

[3] [3] [3] [3] [3] [3] Employers must also provide training to abrasive blasters and support personnel on:

• Blasting health and safety hazards.
• Proper use of controls.
• Personal hygiene practices.
• Safe work practices.
• Use of PPE and respirators.

[3] Additionally, manufacturers must provide health hazard information on Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for blasting materials. [3]

Applicable OSHA standards include:

• Ventilation (1910.94, 1915.33 & 1915.34, 1926.57)
• Occupational noise exposure (1910.95, 1915.95, 1926.52, 1926.101)
• Personal Protective Equipment (1910.132, 1915 Subpart I, 1926 Subpart E)
• Respiratory Protection (1910.134, 1915.154, 1926.103)
• Sanitation (1910.141, 1915.88, 1926.51)
• Air contaminants (1910.1000, 1915.1000, 1926.55)
• Hazard Communication (1910.1200, 1915.1200, 1926.59)

[4] [4] [4] [4] [4] [4] [4]