Safe Work Procedure: Sweeping Silica Containing Debris

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 steps and safety precautions for safely sweeping areas where silica-containing debris is present. This procedure applies to all personnel involved in sweeping activities where there is a potential for exposure to silica dust. It covers the use of appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), proper sweeping techniques, and disposal methods to minimize the risk of inhalation and exposure to silica. This SWP is applicable in various work environments, including construction sites, industrial facilities, and maintenance areas. This SWP should be used in conjunction with the site's overall health and safety plan and any other relevant procedures related to hazardous materials handling and respiratory protection.

2. Definitions

Silica: A naturally occurring mineral found in many types of rock, sand, and soil. Crystalline silica is the form that is hazardous when inhaled.

HEPA Filter: High-Efficiency Particulate Air filter, designed to capture microscopic particles, including silica dust.

Friable Asbestos-Containing Materials: Materials that contain asbestos and can be crumbled or pulverized into a powder by hand pressure [1].

3. Responsibilities

3.1 Supervisors

• Ensure that all workers are properly trained on this SWP and the hazards of silica exposure.
• Provide the necessary PPE and equipment for workers to perform the sweeping tasks safely.
• Monitor work practices to ensure compliance with this SWP and other relevant safety procedures.
• Ensure that workers have access to safety data sheets (SDS) for hazardous substances [2].

3.2 Workers

• Follow the steps outlined in this SWP and use the provided PPE correctly.
• Report any hazards or unsafe conditions to the supervisor immediately.
• Participate in training programs related to silica awareness and safe work practices.
• Inspect PPE before each use and report any defects.

3.3 Health and Safety Representative

• Assist in the development and review of this SWP.
• Conduct regular inspections of work areas to identify potential silica hazards.
• Provide guidance and support to supervisors and workers on health and safety matters.

4. Potential Hazards and Risks

5. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Always use proper PPE to minimize exposure to hazards.

• Respirator: Use an approved respirator (N95 or higher) to prevent inhalation of silica dust. Ensure the respirator is properly fitted and maintained [3].
• Safety Glasses/Goggles: Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect eyes from dust and debris [4].
• Gloves: Wear appropriate gloves to prevent skin contact with debris and cleaning agents [5].
• Protective Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants to minimize skin exposure.
• Foot Protection: Wear sturdy, slip-resistant footwear.

Inspect all PPE before use for any damage or defects. Replace damaged PPE immediately. Clean and store PPE properly after each use.

6. Equipment and Tools

Always use proper equipment and tools to perform the job safely and efficiently.

• Broom: Use a broom with stiff bristles suitable for the surface being swept.
• Dustpan: Use a sturdy dustpan to collect debris.
• HEPA Filter Vacuum: Use a vacuum cleaner equipped with a HEPA filter for dust collection, especially for fine silica dust [3].
• Wet Mop: Use a wet mop for damp-mopping to control dust.
• Spray Bottle: Use a spray bottle to apply water for wet sweeping.

Inspect all equipment and tools before use for any damage or defects. Replace damaged equipment immediately. Maintain equipment in good working condition.

7. Pre-Job Requirements

7.1 Training and Competency

• Workers must be trained on the hazards of silica exposure and the proper use of PPE.
• Workers must be trained on the correct sweeping techniques and disposal methods.
• Ensure employees receive education and training specific to asbestos-containing material [1].

7.2 Pre-Job Briefing

• Conduct a pre-job briefing to discuss the scope of work, potential hazards, and safety precautions.
• Review this SWP with all workers involved in the sweeping activity.
• Confirm that all workers understand their roles and responsibilities.

7.3 Work Area Preparation

• Inspect the work area for potential hazards, such as slip, trip, and fall hazards.
• Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area.
• Post warning signs to alert others of the sweeping activity.
• Remove any obstructions from the work area.

8. Safe Work Procedure Steps

8.1 Preparation

• Step 1: Don appropriate PPE, including a respirator, safety glasses/goggles, gloves, and protective clothing.
• Step 2: Gather all necessary equipment and tools, including a broom, dustpan, spray bottle, and HEPA filter vacuum.
• Step 3: Prepare the work area by removing obstructions and posting warning signs.

Safety considerations for this step: Ensure PPE is in good condition and fits properly. Verify that the HEPA filter vacuum is functioning correctly.

8.2 Sweeping

• Step 1: Lightly mist the area to be swept with water using a spray bottle to dampen the debris and minimize dust generation. Avoid over-wetting the area.
• Step 2: Sweep the debris slowly and carefully towards the dustpan, using gentle strokes to avoid creating dust clouds.
• Step 3: Use the dustpan to collect the debris and transfer it into a sealed container for disposal.

Safety considerations for this step: Maintain a slow and steady pace to minimize dust generation. Avoid dry sweeping, which can create airborne dust [1].

8.3 Clean-Up

• Step 1: After sweeping, use a HEPA filter vacuum to clean any remaining dust or debris from the area [3].
• Step 2: Damp-mop the area to further remove any residual dust.
• Step 3: Properly dispose of the collected debris in accordance with local regulations for hazardous waste 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17.

Safety considerations for this step: Ensure the HEPA filter vacuum is used correctly and maintained properly. Follow local regulations for the disposal of silica-containing waste.

9. Precautions and Safety Measures

• Avoid Dry Sweeping: Always use wet sweeping methods to minimize dust generation [1].
• Use Proper Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area to reduce the concentration of airborne dust.
• Regularly Clean Equipment: Keep equipment clean and in good working condition to prevent dust accumulation.
• No Compressed Air: Never use compressed air for cleaning, as it can create airborne dust [3].
• Wash Hands: Wash hands and face thoroughly with soap and water after completing the sweeping activity 8, 9.

10. Emergency Procedures

10.1 General Emergency Response

In the event of an emergency, follow these general procedures:

• Stop work immediately and assess the situation.
• Evacuate the area if necessary.
• Contact emergency services if required.
• Provide first aid to any injured personnel.

10.2 Specific Emergency Scenarios

• Inhalation of Silica Dust: Move to fresh air immediately. Seek medical attention if experiencing difficulty breathing.
• Eye Contact: Flush eyes with water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
• Skin Contact: Wash affected area with soap and water. Seek medical attention if irritation develops.

10.3 Emergency Contact Information

• Emergency Services: 911
• [Company Health and Safety]: [PHONE NUMBER]
• [Site Supervisor]: [PHONE NUMBER]

11. Incident Reporting and Investigation

Report all incidents, near-misses, and hazards to the supervisor immediately. An investigation will be conducted to determine the root cause of the incident and implement corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

12. References and Related Documents

• Canada Occupational Health and Safety Regulations (SOR/86-304) 18, 20
• Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for Silica
• [Company Health and Safety Manual]

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

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