Write a toolbox talk on crushing concrete

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OSHA FactSheet CONTROL SILICA DUST Breathe Easier # CONTROL OF SILICA DUST IN CONSTRUCTION Crushing Machines Using crushing machines at construction sites to reduce the size of large rocks, concrete, or construction rubble can generate respirable crystalline silica dust. When inhaled, the small particles of silica can irreversibly damage the lungs. This fact sheet describes dust controls that can be used to minimize the amount of airborne dust when using crushing machines as listed in Table 1 of the Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard for Construction 29 CFR 1926.1153. ## Engineering Control Method: Wet Methods AND Operator Isolation The use of water sprays or mists for dust suppression at the points where dust is generated (e.g., hoppers, conveyers, sieves/ sizing or vibrating components, and discharge points) can control dust exposures when operating crushers. In addition, operator isolation through the use of a remote control station or ventilated booth that provides fresh, climate-controlled air to the operator must also be used to control exposure when operating crushers at construction sites. Photo courtesy of Screen Machine Industries Crushing machine being loaded with construction debris by an excavator. ## Wet Methods Wet spray methods can greatly reduce the silica exposure levels of operators and laborers who work near crushers, tending the equipment, removing jammed material from hoppers, picking debris out of the material stream, and performing other tasks. The crusher must be operated and maintained in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions to minimize dust emissions. Make sure to: . Locate nozzles upstream of dust generation points. • Position nozzles to thoroughly wet the material. • Ensure the volume and size of droplets is adequate to sufficiently wet the material (optimal droplet size is between 10 and 150 μm). - Ensure nozzles provide complete water coverage but are not so far that the water is carried away by wind. ##…

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# OSHA QUICK CARD™ ## Protect Yourself Construction Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) ## Eye and Face Protection - Safety glasses or face shields are worn any time work operations can cause foreign objects to get in the eye. For example, during welding, cutting, grinding, nailing (or when working with concrete and/or harmful chemi- cals or when exposed to flying particles). Wear when exposed to any electrical hazards, including working on energized electrical systems. - Eye and face protectors - select based on anticipated hazards. ## Foot Protection - Construction workers should wear work shoes or boots with slip-resistant and puncture-resistant soles. • Safety-toed footwear is worn to prevent crushed toes when working around heavy equipment or falling objects. - Hand Protection - Gloves should fit snugly. - Workers should wear the right gloves for the job (examples: heavy-duty rubber gloves for concrete work; welding gloves for welding; insulated gloves and sleeves when exposed to electrical hazards). - Head Protection • Wear hard hats where there is a potential for objects falling from above, bumps to the head from fixed objects, or of accidental head contact with electrical hazards. - Hard hats - routinely inspect them for dents, cracks or deterioration; replace after a heavy blow or electrical shock; maintain in good condition. - Hearing Protection - Use earplugs/earmuffs in high noise work areas where chainsaws or heavy equipment are used; clean or replace earplugs regularly. For more complete information: Occupational OSHA Safety and Health Administration U.S. Department of Labor www.osha.gov (800) 321-OSHA OSHA 3260-09N-05

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# SafetyWorks! Toolbox Talks # Subject: Personal Protective Equipment -- Concrete Construction Concrete construction has unique requirements for the need of personal protective equipment (also called PPE). Today we are going to discuss the various types of PPE and why. ## Guide for Discussion Construction Common • Some sort of head gear. If there is a danger of falling objects, wear a hard hat. If working in cold weather, wear a hat to keep the body warm. • Eye protection. Wear safety glasses or goggles when pouring concrete. That way any splashing concrete stays out of your eyes. - Gloves. It makes common sense to protect our hands as much as possible. Wearing gloves protects against scratches and cuts and possible infection because of the chemicals used in concrete. • Long sleeve shirt/pants. This keeps concrete from splashing on your body. You can avoid burns that way. ## Concrete Unusual • One vital piece of PPE is kneepads. Since concrete finishing often exposes knees to additional wear and tear, it makes sense to wear kneepads designed to take the stress rather than scraps of insulation held on by duct tape. - Rubber Boots. If wet concrete comes into contact with the skin for any lengthy period of time, we can get severe burns. Besides, it is easier to wash off rubber boots than to wash off and have wet feet with regular boots after pouring mud. ## Additional Discussion Notes: Remember: Just like roofers have to wear a full body harness, concrete workers need to protect themselves. Unlike roofers protecting against a fall, we have to protect ourselves against additional wear and tear on our bodies. NOTE: Always promote a discussion on any of the topics covered in the Tool Box Talks. Should any question arise that you cannot answer, don't hesitate to contact your Employer or SafetyWorks!. SafetyWorks! 45 State House Station Augusta, Maine [redacted postal code] Phone: (207) 623-7900 Website: www.safetyworksmaine.com