Silica dust comprises tiny particles produced when materials such as rock and concrete are drilled, cut, or drilled. When not controlled, silica dust poses a health risk to those workers directly exposed to it. The dust can cause several respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Silicosis, and lung cancer. Dust build-up also damages equipment and machinery reading to constant breakdown and the need for repair and replacements. This is why it’s crucial to have proper measures and BossTek equipment in place to control the creation and spread of silica dust. Some of these control measures include:
Substitution
Substituting can be a great way to reduce the amount of silica dust being produced in an area. However, this approach may not be applicable in all instances and can be costly. Nevertheless, substituting involves replacing silica-producing materials with other alternatives that produce little or no dust. For example, you can choose to use liquid materials instead of solid one. You could also choose to use engineered rock and stone rather than natural stone. The engineered rock is less likely to produce a lot of dust since is it made of crushed quartz and resin hence a good alternative for dust control.
Use of vacuum dust collector systems
Lastly, if none of the above measures is applicable, then invest in vacuum dust collector systems. Such systems are effective in collecting dust from equipment and surfaces. The systems are designed with a vacuum, dust collector, and filter. The vacuum collects the dust, which is then filtered, out of the air by the filter and dust collector. This is a good option that can help control dust in s a vast area where there’s; cutting, drilling and grinding.
Use of wet methods
If substitution of materials is not possible, there is an alternative to adopting wet methods. This will entail using water during cutting, grinding, and drilling activities to suppress the dust produced. To make it more effective, use a misting system or water hose to spray the water at the dust source. This approach helps to control the spread of dust and the wastage of water.
Isolation and enclosure
Isolation involves secluding the area where silica dust is being produced and enclosure involves creating a barrier around that particular area. These two measures are intended to prevent the spread of silica dust. After isolating and closing off the area, you can use fans and other dust collectors to control the amount of dust being made. In addition, you should provide protective gear for those workers who are working in the isolated area, this will protect them from being exposed to dust. These workers should also have a cleanup area to wash off after each task.
Administrative controls
None of the above methods can be used as a standalone if it is to be fully effective. This is why you need to apply administrative controls. These controls include rules that must be followed to stop dust from spreading and to keep workers from getting hurt. One of the controls to use is limiting the amount of time one employee is exposed to silica dust. This means using rotation and regular break periods to reduce exposure. Additionally, ensure there’s regular monitoring of dust levels and maintenance of equipment
Exposure to silica dust is a major health hazard for those who are directly and indirectly exposed to it. To stop the spread of silica dust, it’s important to use effective methods like isolation, substitution, wet methods, vacuum dust collection systems, and administrative controls.
