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Write a toolbox talk on Silica Awareness Safety Training in Construction workplaces, involving, excavation, cutting concrete, ashphalt, removing dry wall and demo debris, drilling, etc

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Published by SALUS

Silica Awareness Safety Training for Construction Workplaces ============================================================

Date: 2026-05-27

Duration: \[DURATION] minutes

Presenter: \[PRESENTER NAME]

Location: \[LOCATION]

Objective

Increase worker awareness of respirable crystalline silica hazards in construction, explain where exposure occurs during dust-generating tasks, and reinforce the controls required to prevent overexposure, protect health, and support compliance with the OSHA construction silica standard.

Introduction

Respirable crystalline silica is a serious construction hazard because the dust particles are small enough to travel deep into the lungs and cause permanent disease. Construction workers can be exposed during excavation, concrete and asphalt cutting, drywall removal, demolition debris handling, drilling, grinding, jackhammering, and similar tasks that disturb silica-containing materials such as sand, concrete, rock, mortar, brick, and stone. OSHA estimates that more than 840,000 workers are exposed to silica levels that exceed the permissible exposure limit annually, and the health effects can include silicosis, lung cancer, COPD, kidney disease, and other serious illnesses. This toolbox talk focuses on recognizing the hazard early and using practical controls every day to keep dust out of the air and out of workers’ lungs.

Presenter Note: Open by connecting silica exposure to the crew’s actual tasks today. Ask workers where they have seen visible dust, slurry, or poor housekeeping on similar jobs, then transition into the health effects and control methods.

Key Points

  • 1\. Know Where Silica Dust Comes From: Silica is present in many common construction materials, and dust is released whenever those materials are cut, ground, drilled, crushed, chipped, or demolished. High-risk tasks include masonry saw work, handheld drilling, jackhammering, concrete and asphalt cutting, grinding mortar, drywall finishing and sanding, tunneling, abrasive blasting, and heavy equipment operations that fracture silica-containing materials. Workers should assume dust may contain silica unless the task has been evaluated and controlled. [2]

[8]

  • Treat visible dust as a warning sign that controls may be inadequate.
  • Do not assume short-duration tasks are safe just because they are brief.
  • Nearby workers can also be exposed, even if they are not performing the task.
  • 2\. Understand the Health Risks: Breathing respirable crystalline silica can cause silicosis, an incurable and sometimes fatal lung disease. It can also contribute to lung cancer, COPD, kidney disease, and autoimmune disease. Silicosis may develop after weeks of very high exposure or after years of lower exposure, and symptoms may not appear until significant lung damage has already occurred. Early warning signs can include shortness of breath, wheezing, chest tightness, persistent cough, and fatigue. [2]

[5] [4]

  • Silicosis is progressive and can worsen even after exposure stops.
  • Smoking adds to lung damage and increases overall respiratory risk.
  • Medical surveillance and prompt reporting of symptoms are critical.
  • 3\. Follow the Exposure Control Plan and OSHA Requirements: Employers must evaluate tasks that may create silica dust, conduct exposure assessments when required, and implement a written exposure control plan. In construction, a competent person should be designated to implement the plan, inspect job sites, materials, and equipment, and ensure controls are working. Workers should know which tasks are covered by Table 1, where regulated or restricted access areas are located, and when respiratory protection is required. [1]

[7] [10]

  • Ask where the written exposure control plan is kept and how workers can review it.
  • Know who the competent person is for the jobsite.
  • Report damaged tools, failed dust controls, or unexpected visible dust immediately.
  • 4\. Use Engineering Controls First: The most effective way to control silica is to keep dust from becoming airborne or capture it at the source. Use wet methods, integrated water delivery systems, local exhaust ventilation, shrouds, and HEPA-filtered vacuum dust collection systems whenever the task and equipment allow it. Controls must be maintained in good working order, and water flow, hoses, nozzles, filters, and seals should be checked before use. [9]

[13] [12]

  • Use water continuously where required and practical.
  • Use vacuum attachments or dust shrouds that match the tool and task.
  • Stop work if the control system is not functioning properly.
  • 5\. Keep Dust Out of the Breathing Zone and Off the Jobsite: Housekeeping matters because dry sweeping, dry brushing, and compressed air can re-entrain silica dust into the air. Use wet sweeping or HEPA-filtered vacuuming instead. Restrict access to dusty areas, keep other trades away from active silica-generating work, and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in contaminated areas. Clean dust from tools, clothing, and surfaces before it spreads to other workers or leaves the site. [1]

[10] [1]

  • Do not use compressed air unless it is part of an effective dust-capture system or no other feasible method exists.
  • Vacuum clothing with HEPA filtration or change into clean clothes before leaving.
  • Wash hands and face before breaks and before going home.
  • 6\. Respiratory Protection Is the Last Line of Defense: Respirators are required when engineering and work practice controls cannot keep exposure below the permissible exposure limit or when Table 1 specifies their use. Respirators must be NIOSH-approved and used as part of a proper respiratory protection program. A respirator only protects the worker when it is the correct type, properly fitted, and worn consistently during the exposure period. [1]

[9] [7]

  • Do not rely on a respirator instead of dust control.
  • Facial hair can interfere with the seal on tight-fitting respirators.
  • Workers must know how to inspect, don, doff, and seal-check their respirator.

Hazard Identification

Silica exposure hazards on construction sites are often created by routine work that seems ordinary until dust becomes visible. The following hazards are common during excavation, cutting, drilling, demolition, and cleanup activities.

  • Cutting, grinding, drilling, jackhammering, or crushing silica-containing materials releases respirable dust into the air.: Workers can inhale fine silica particles deep into the lungs, leading to silicosis, lung cancer, COPD, kidney disease, and other serious respiratory illness. [9]

(Risk: High)

  • Dry sweeping, dry brushing, and compressed air cleanup re-suspend settled silica dust.: Dust that had settled on floors, tools, clothing, or surfaces can become airborne again and be inhaled by workers and nearby crews. [10]

(Risk: High)

  • Inadequate or poorly maintained wet methods, ventilation, shrouds, or HEPA vacuum systems fail to control dust at the source.: Visible dust may increase, exposure may exceed limits, and workers may need higher-level respiratory protection or may be overexposed without realizing it. [3]

[13]

(Risk: High)

  • Dust carried on clothing, skin, tools, or vehicles can spread silica beyond the work area.: Workers may contaminate break areas, vehicles, homes, and family members, creating secondary exposure and long-term health risk. [1]

(Risk: Medium)

  • Working in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas increases airborne dust concentration.: Dust can accumulate in the breathing zone, increasing the likelihood of overexposure even when controls are in place. [12]

(Risk: High)

Presenter Note: Use the hazard list to prompt workers to name the tasks they perform that create dust. Reinforce that silica exposure is not limited to one trade and that nearby workers can also be affected.

Control Measures

Apply the hierarchy of controls by first eliminating or substituting silica-containing materials where feasible, then using engineering controls to capture or suppress dust at the source, followed by administrative controls such as access restriction, scheduling, and training. Respiratory protection should be used only when higher-level controls cannot fully control exposure or when the standard requires it. This approach is consistent with the construction silica standard and the practical controls identified in the source documents.

  • Use wet methods to suppress dust at the source.: Apply water continuously during cutting, drilling, grinding, or breaking operations when the equipment and task allow it. Verify that hoses, nozzles, and water delivery systems are intact and functioning before starting work. [1]

[13]

  • Use HEPA-filtered vacuum dust collection systems and shrouds.: Attach the correct shroud or dust hood to the tool and connect it to a vacuum with HEPA filtration or equivalent high-efficiency collection. Inspect hoses, filters, and connections regularly and clean or replace components as needed. [1]

[12]

  • Restrict access to active silica-generating work areas.: Keep unprotected workers, other trades, and visitors out of the dust zone. Post warning signs or barriers when needed and coordinate work so dust-producing tasks are separated from other activities. [1]

[6]

  • Use approved respiratory protection when required.: Provide NIOSH-approved respirators only when engineering and work practice controls cannot keep exposure below the limit or when Table 1 requires them. Ensure the respiratory protection program includes selection, fit testing, training, and seal checks. [1]

[10]

  • Use proper housekeeping methods.: Clean with wet sweeping or HEPA-filtered vacuuming. Do not dry sweep, dry brush, or use compressed air unless no feasible alternative exists and the method is controlled to prevent exposure. [10]

[1]

  • Prevent take-home exposure.: Remove dust from clothing with a HEPA vacuum or change into clean clothes before leaving the site. Shower if facilities are available and do not brush or blow dust off clothing or skin. [1]

[5]

Safe Work Procedures

  1. Review the task before work begins to determine whether it will generate silica dust and what controls are required. Confirm that the correct tool, attachment, water supply, vacuum, or enclosure is available and functioning. [1]
  2. Set up the work area to reduce exposure to others by using barriers, warning signs, scheduling, or distance from other workers whenever possible. [6]
  3. Operate tools according to manufacturer instructions and keep dust controls active throughout the task. Stop work if water flow, vacuum capture, or ventilation is not working properly. [13]

[12]

  1. Clean slurry, settled dust, and tools using wet methods or HEPA-filtered vacuuming before dust dries and becomes airborne. [13]

[6]

  1. Wash hands and face before eating, drinking, smoking, or leaving the worksite, and change out of dusty clothing before going home. [1]

[5]

Presenter Note: Walk through the steps in the same order the crew would perform them on the job: plan, set up, control, clean up, and leave the site without carrying dust home.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Requirements

  • Respirator: Use a NIOSH-approved respirator when required by the exposure level, the task, or the control method in use. The respirator must be the correct type for the hazard, properly fitted, and used as part of a full respiratory protection program. Workers should perform seal checks each time they put the respirator on and should not wear tight-fitting respirators with facial hair that interferes with the seal. [1]

[7]

  • Follow the site respiratory protection program.
  • Replace damaged or contaminated respirators immediately.
  • Do not modify the respirator or use it outside its intended conditions.
  • Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses or goggles to protect against airborne dust, slurry splash, and flying debris generated during cutting, drilling, grinding, or demolition. Eye protection should fit securely and remain in place during the task, especially when wet methods are used. [4]
  • Choose eye protection compatible with the respirator and hard hat.
  • Use side shields or sealed goggles when splash or fine dust is expected.
  • Protective Clothing: Wear disposable or washable work clothes that can be cleaned without shaking or brushing dust into the air. If shower facilities are available, shower before leaving the site. Use HEPA vacuuming or change into clean clothing before leaving the work area to prevent take-home exposure. [1]
  • Do not brush or blow dust off clothing.
  • Keep dusty work clothes separate from street clothes.
  • Bag contaminated clothing if required by site procedures.
  • Gloves and Skin Protection: Wear gloves when handling abrasive materials, debris, or slurry to reduce skin contact and help keep dust from settling on the hands. Gloves do not replace dust controls, but they support good hygiene and reduce the chance of transferring dust to the face, food, or vehicles. [4]
  • Select gloves appropriate for the task and wet conditions.
  • Wash hands before removing gloves and before breaks.

PPE is important, but it is not the primary control for silica. Use engineering controls and work practices first, then use PPE to fill the remaining gap. PPE only works when it is worn correctly, maintained properly, and used for the full duration of exposure.

Real-World Example or Case Study

A construction laborer spent years cutting and drilling concrete without water suppression or vacuum dust collection, and he was rarely given a respirator. Over time he developed shortness of breath, wheezing, and fatigue after even short periods of work. After he told his doctor about his work history, an x-ray read by a certified Class B reader helped diagnose silicosis. The lesson is clear: uncontrolled dust exposure can cause permanent disease, but the illness is preventable when water, vacuums, respiratory protection, and housekeeping are used correctly. [3] [3]

Presenter Note: Use the case study to make the hazard personal. Ask the crew what controls were missing and what should have been done differently on that job.

Group Discussion

Discuss the following questions:

  1. Which tasks on this site are most likely to generate respirable crystalline silica dust, and what controls are we using for each one?
  2. What would you do if the water supply, vacuum attachment, or dust control system stopped working during the task?
  3. How do we prevent silica dust from leaving the work area and getting into vehicles, break areas, or homes?

Presenter Note: Encourage workers to answer from their own job experience. Reinforce that the best answers are specific, practical, and tied to the actual tools and tasks being used today.

Emergency Procedures

  1. Stop the task immediately if dust controls fail, visible dust increases unexpectedly, or equipment malfunctions. Notify the supervisor or competent person so the hazard can be corrected before work resumes. [11]
  2. If a worker develops breathing difficulty, chest tightness, wheezing, or other symptoms of overexposure, remove the worker from the dusty area and seek medical evaluation promptly. [3]
  3. If silica dust may have contaminated clothing or personal items, clean them using HEPA vacuuming or change into clean clothing before leaving the site to prevent take-home exposure. [1]

Questions and Answers

If you have questions about silica exposure, controls, or respirator use, ask them now. The goal is to make sure everyone understands the task-specific controls before work begins.

  • Q: What is respirable crystalline silica?

A: It is the very fine fraction of crystalline silica dust created when materials such as concrete, brick, stone, mortar, sand, and similar products are cut, drilled, ground, crushed, or demolished. These particles are small enough to reach deep into the lungs and cause disease. [9]

  • Q: Do I still need controls if the task is short?

A: Yes. Short-duration tasks can still create hazardous silica exposure, and the standard does not provide a blanket exemption just because the task is brief. Use the required controls for the task and verify they are working before starting. [11]

  • Q: What is the best way to control silica dust?

A: The best approach is to prevent dust from becoming airborne or capture it at the source using wet methods, local exhaust ventilation, shrouds, and HEPA-filtered vacuum systems. Respirators are important, but they are the last line of defense. [5]

  • Q: How do I keep silica dust from going home with me?

A: Vacuum dust from clothing with HEPA filtration or change into clean clothing before leaving the site, shower if facilities are available, and never brush or blow dust off your clothes or skin. [1]

Summary

Recap of main points:

  • Silica dust is created by common construction tasks such as cutting, drilling, grinding, jackhammering, demolition, and drywall work, and it can cause permanent lung disease. [2]
  • Use engineering controls first, especially wet methods, local exhaust ventilation, and HEPA vacuum dust collection, and keep those systems maintained. [1]
  • Use proper housekeeping, access control, and hygiene practices to prevent dust from spreading to other workers, vehicles, and homes. [10]
  • Wear the correct PPE, including a NIOSH-approved respirator when required, but remember that PPE is the last line of defense. [1]

Action Items

Specific actions participants should take:

  1. Identify the silica-generating tasks you will perform today and confirm the required controls before starting work. [1]
  2. Inspect water delivery systems, vacuum attachments, filters, hoses, and seals before use and report defects immediately. [13]
  3. Use wet sweeping or HEPA vacuuming for cleanup and keep dust off clothing, skin, and tools. [10]
  4. Wear the required PPE correctly and ask for help if you are unsure whether your respirator, eye protection, or clothing is appropriate for the task. [7]
  5. Do not eat, drink, smoke, or take dusty clothing home from the jobsite. [1]

Remember: Control silica at the source, protect your lungs, and never take dust home.

Report all hazards, near-misses, and incidents to your supervisor immediately.

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13 source record(s)

Sources used for this answer

[1] Toolbox Talk: Silica in Construction

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# SILICA IN CONSTRUCTION Date Posted: 10/28/2023 OSHA estimates that more than 840,000 workers are exposed to silica levels that exceed the new permissible exposure limit (PEL) annually. Silica is found in many materials common on construction sites, including sand, concrete, rock, mortar, stone, and brick. When workers cut, grind, abrasive blast, jackhammer, or perform other tasks that disturb these materials, dust containing crystalline silica can be released into the air. Workers who inhale this dust are at risk. Silica can cause serious, sometimes fatal illnesses, including a lung disease called silicosis, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It has also been linked to other conditions, such as kidney disease. ## EFFECTS OF SILICA Overexposure to respirable silica dust can cause many health hazards. When the small particles are inhaled, they can penetrate deep into the lungs causing dangerous and sometimes fatal lung diseases. ## SILICOSIS According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), breathing dust from silica-containing materials can lead to silicosis. Silica dust particles become trapped in lung tissue, causing inflammation and scarring. The particles also reduce the lungs' ability to take in oxygen. This condition is called silicosis. Silicosis results in permanent lung damage and is a progressive, debilitating, and sometimes fatal disease. ## LUNG CANCER Many studies have shown a relationship between silica dust and the risk of lung cancer. This is because the dust causes the lungs to scar, and this scarring can lead to lung cancer. ## CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE (COPD) Silica and other dust also cause COPD. COPD includes chronic bronchitis, emphysema, bronchiectasis, and chronic airway obstruction. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in 2014, COPD ranked as the third leading cause of death in the U.S., with over 147,000 deaths. In addition, COPD was projected to become the …

[2] Crystalline Silica Exposure

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WORK SAFE KENTUCKY Free safety resources provided by KEMI HOME SAFETY RESOURCES SAFETY TRAINING SAFETY BLOG ABOUT KEMI CONTACT US O # Crystalline Silica Exposure ## Print a Sign-In Sheet | Spanish Version ## What Is Crystalline Silica? Crystalline silica is a basic component of soil, sand, granite, and many other minerals. Quartz is the most common form of crystalline silica. Cristobalite and tridymite are two other forms of crystalline silica. All three forms may become respirable size particles when workers chip, cut, drill, or grind objects that contain crystalline silica. ## What Are the Hazards of Crystalline Silica? • Silica exposure remains a serious threat to nearly 2 million U.S. workers. - High-risk jobs include: abrasive blasting, foundry work, stonecutting, rock drilling, quarry work, and tunneling. - Crystalline silica has been classified as a human lung carcinogen. • Breathing crystalline silica dust can cause silicosis, which in severe cases can be disabling, or even fatal. • The respirable silica dust enters the lungs and causes the formation of scar tissue, thus reducing the lungs' ability take in oxygen. • There is no cure for silicosis. • Since silicosis affects lung function, it makes one more susceptible to lung infections like tuberculosis. In addition, smoking causes lung damage and adds to the damage caused by breathing silica dust. ## Where Are Construction Workers Exposed to Crystalline Silica? Exposure occurs during many different construction activities including: • Abrasive blasting with sand to remove paint and rust from bridges, tanks, concrete structures, and other surfaces. • Keep records of workers' silica exposure and medical exams. • Jackhammering. • Rock/well drilling. • Concrete mixing and drilling B. • Brick and concrete block cutting. ## Where Are General Industry Employees Exposed to Crystalline Silica Dust? General Industry exposures to crystalline silica result from a variety of manufacturing and ma…

[3] OSHA Instruction - National Emphasis Program – Respirable Crystalline Silica

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# Construction Activities that May Involve RCS Exposure The following list is provided to help Area Offices with targeting of construction work sites by listing operations likely to have exposures to RCS, as described in the preamble, pages [redacted postal code] and [redacted postal code]: • Abrasive blasting • Drywall finishing • Earth drilling - Heavy equipment operations (excavating, grading, abrading, or fracturing silica- containing materials, or demolishing concrete or masonry structures) • Concrete and masonry hole drilling using handheld or stand-mounted drills . Jackhammering and powered, handheld, chipping of concrete and masonry • Masonry, concrete, or fiber-cement board cutting using portable saws, walk-behind saws, drivable or ride-on saws, rig-mounts core saws and drills, or stationary saws • Milling of asphalt using portable or mobile machines, such as walk-behind milling machines, floor grinders, or drivable milling machines • Rock and concrete drilling using vehicle-mounted drilling rigs and dowel drilling rigs • Mobile concrete crushing machines • Tuckpointing and grinding using handheld grinders for mortar removal and other than mortar removal (Reference: 81 FR at [redacted postal code], [redacted postal code]) See also the specific equipment and tasks in the left-hand column of 29 CFR § 1926.1153(c)(1), Table 1, and the OSHA Small Entity Compliance Guide for the Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard for Construction, available at https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3902.pdf. For videos of several of these tasks, see the following: - Stationary Masonry Saws, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eu0s4- ZLW91&feature=youtu.be - Handheld Power Saws, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfYI31pF4Ng&feature=youtu.be • Handheld and Stand-Mounted Drills, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yzo- SZ_PSic&feature=youtu.be - Jackhammers or Handheld Powered Chipping Tools, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e2uRD2dJ8vs&feature=youtu.be ■ Handheld Gr…

[4] OSHA Fact Sheet - Control Of Silica Dust In Construction: Rig-Mounted Core Saws or Drills

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OSHA FactSheet CONTROL SILICA DUST Breathe Easier # CONTROL OF SILICA DUST IN CONSTRUCTION Rig-Mounted Core Saws or Drills The use of rig-mounted core saws or drills to cut holes in concrete, masonry, or other silica-containing materials can generate respirable crystalline silica dust. When inhaled over time, the small particles of silica can irreversibly damage the lungs. This fact sheet describes methods to minimize the amount of airborne dust when using core saws or drills as listed in Table 1 of the Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard for Construction, 29 CFR 1926.1153. ## Engineering Control Method: Water applied to cutting surface ## Wet Methods Wet cutting is an effective way to reduce the amount of silica dust when using a rig-mounted core saw or drill. Many types of core saws and drills come equipped with an integrated water delivery system that directs a continuous stream onto the blade/drill bit where it wets the material being drilled and reduces the amount of dust generated. Water flow rates must be sufficient to minimize the release of visible dust. The rig-mounted core saw or drill must be operated and maintained in accordance with manufacturer's instructions to minimize dust emissions. Focus on the following areas: • Check and make sure that hoses are securely connected and are not cracked or broken. • Adjust nozzles so that water goes to the blade and wets the cutting area. . Inspect the saw blade/drill bit to be sure it is in good condition and does not show excessive wear. Clean up any slurry produced to prevent the slurry from drying and releasing silica dust into the air. Wet slurry can be cleaned up using, for example, shovels or a wet vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter. ## Indoors or in Enclosed Areas Using wet methods indoors or in an enclosed area may not reliably keep exposure low, so extra ventilation may be needed to reduce visible airborne dust. Extra ventilation can be supplied by using: . Exhaust trunks • Portable e…

[5] OSHA Letter of Interpretation | Types of construction work excluded from the Silica standard

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# Occupational Safety and Health Administration (cont.) Note that during an inspection, an OSHA compliance safety and health officer might conduct sampling when he/she has reason to believe that exposures may reach or exceed the AL. The persistent presence of visible dust, an equipment malfunction, or another unexpected event that could affect employee exposures may indicate that it is no longer reasonable to expect employee exposures to remain below the AL. Question 2: Does the RCS construction standard apply to tasks like drilling holes in silica-containing materials with handheld drills or certain activities like manual or mechanical mixing of mortar or concrete if they are performed for short durations of time, e.g., 15 minutes or less per day? Response: The RCS construction standard does not include a specific exemption for RCS-generating tasks that involve only short-term exposures (e.g., tasks with exposures for 15 minutes a day or less). We recommend that you review the Frequently. Asked Questions ("FAQs") for Occupational Exposure to Respirable Crystalline Silica, 29 CFR 1926.1153, in the Construction Industry on OSHA's website,¹ specifically FAQ 2, which provides a detailed explanation for coverage under the standard of employees who perform silica-generating tasks for only 15 minutes or less a day. Question 3: The first entry in Table 1 of OSHA's RCS construction standard is titled "(i) Stationary masonry saws." The term "masonry" is not defined in the regulatory text. Would users of stationary tile saws that involve wet cutting methods, regardless of whether water is "fed" to the blade or if the blade simply runs partially submerged in water, be in compliance with the standard while using such saws when cutting porcelain, natural stone, and ceramic tile? Response: OSHA considers stationary tile saws used to cut silica-containing masonry materials such as porcelain, stone, and tile to be stationary masonry saws under the RCS construction standard (se…

[6] Toolbox Talk: Silica Exposure

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# SILICA EXPOSURE Date Posted: 08/24/2016 Silica is found in many materials common on construction sites, including sand, concrete, rock, mortar, and brick. When workers cut, grind, abrasive blast, jackhammer or perform other tasks that disturb these materials, dust containing crystalline silica can released into the air. Workers who inhale this dust are at risk. Silica can cause serious, sometimes fatal illnesses including a lung disease called silicosis, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). ## HOW DOES SILICA INHALATION CAUSE HARM TO THE LUNGS? Silicosis can develop within a few weeks to even decades after exposure. When people breathe silica dust, they inhale tiny particles of the mineral silica. This dust can cause fluid buildup and scar tissue in the lungs that cuts down your ability to breathe silica LEARN MORE OF THE IMPACTS OF SILICA ON THE LUNGS READ ABOUT THE HAWKS NEST TUNNEL DISASTER The Hawks Nest Tunnel disaster was a large scale incident of occupational silicosis as the result of construction. Workers found the mineral silica and were asked to mine it. The workers were not provided with protective masks and many workers developed silicosis. A large number of workers eventually died, in some cases as quickly as within a year ## HOW TO PROTECT FROM THE HAZARDS OF SILICA DUST • Use vacuums or water to reduce or eliminate the dust at the source, before it becomes airborne. When these controls are not enough, use respiratory protection. Routinely maintain dust control systems to keep them in good working order. • Do not use sand or other substances containing more than 1% crystalline silica as abrasive blasting materials. Substitute less hazardous materials. • Wear disposable or washable work clothes and shower if facilities are available. • Vacuum the dust from your clothes and change into clean clothing before leaving the work site. Do not bring dust home. • Do not brush or blow off the dust. • Do not eat, drink,…

[7] It’s not just dust! What you should know about crystalline silica, silicosis, and Oregon OSHA silica rules

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# Regulated and restricted access areas ([redacted phone]) (cont.) ## The written exposure control plan (cont.) Exposure control at construction sites: For construction activities, you must designate a competent person to implement the written exposure control plan and reg- ularly inspect job sites, materials, and equipment. You can designate any of your employees to be a compe- tent person if the person: • Can identify silica dust hazards at the construction site - Is authorized to promptly eliminate or minimize the hazards at the site • Has the knowledge and ability to implement the written exposure control plan for the site Yearly review of written exposure control plan: You must review and evaluate the effectiveness of the written exposure control plan at least once a year and update it as necessary to ensure the information is current. Availability of the written exposure control plan: Allow the written exposure control plan to be viewed or cop- ied by each employee covered by Oregon OSHA's silica rules and their designated representatives. Abrasive blasting: If your employees do abrasive blast- ing that uses crystalline silica blasting agents you must follow all of the requirements for the written exposure control plan and the requirements in Oregon OSHA's ventilation rules (see [redacted phone].94). ## Respiratory protection ([redacted phone]) Employees exposed to silica dust must wear respirators when: • Engineering controls are being installed or work practice controls implemented and their exposures exceed the PEL - Engineering and work practice controls are not feasible and their exposures exceed the PEL • Engineering and work practice controls are not suf- ficient to keep their exposures at or below the PEL • They are working in a regulated or restricted access area When respirators are required, you must also have a respiratory protection program that meets the require- ments of Oregon OSHA's respiratory protection rules (see 1910.134). …

[8] OSHA Fact Sheet - Control Of Silica Dust In Construction: Handheld Grinders for Tasks Other Than Mortar Removal

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# CONTROL OF SILICA DUST IN CONSTRUCTION Handheld Grinders for Tasks Other Than Mortar Removal (cont.) ## Make sure to: (cont.) Clean up any slurry produced to prevent the slurry from drying and releasing silica dust into the air. Wet slurry can be cleaned up using, for example, shovels or a wet vacuum equipped with a HEPA filter. ## Vacuum Dust Collection System (VDCS) Employers can also comply with Table 1 in the silica standard by using a VDCS to control dust when using a handheld grinder. Use a: . Commercially available shroud and dust collection system on the grinding wheel appropriate for the grinder and wheel size. . Vacuum that provides at least 25 cubic feet per minute (cfm) of airflow per inch of blade to capture dust at the point of grinding. For example, a 5" grinding wheel would require a rating of 125 cfm of air flow or more for effective capture. . Vacuum equipped with a cyclonic pre- separator or filter-cleaning mechanism with a filter that has 99 percent or greater collection efficiency for respirable-sized particles. - Vacuum exhaust hose capable of providing the airflow recommended by the tool manufacturer. A 1.5" to 2" diameter vacuum exhaust hose is typically adequate. Make sure to: - Keep the vacuum hose clear and free of debris, kinks, and tight bends. • Follow the equipment manufacturer's directions on how to reduce dust buildup on the filter. - Change vacuum-collection bags as directed by the manufacturer. Do not overfill the bag. • Set a regular schedule for maintenance and filter cleaning of the drill and VDCS. • Avoid exposure to dust when changing vacuum bags and cleaning or replacing air filters. Exhaust Hose Shroud Grinding Wheel Illustration courtesy of NIOSH Detail of grinder with vacuum dust collection system attachment. ## Respiratory Protection When properly used, wet methods can effectively control exposure to silica dust. Therefore, Table 1 does not require the use of respiratory protection when operating h…

[9] Toolbox Talk: Silica in Construction

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# SILICA IN CONSTRUCTION (cont.) ## HOW CAN YOU PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SILICA EXPOSURE IN THE WORKPLACE? • Employers are required to evaluate procedures to identify if they create silica dust and might overexpose you and conduct a silica exposure assessment to determine if respirable silica is present at or above the action level (25 μg/m3) and in what quantities in accordance with WAC [redacted identifier]. the • Use local exhaust or ventilation systems that capture the dust at the source and collect it in a system with HEPA filtration or water to reduce or eliminate dust at the source before it becomes airborne. When these controls are not enough, use respiratory protection. Routinely maintain dust control systems to keep them in good working order. • Use wet methods when cutting, grinding, or breaking concrete, brick, mortar, block, or similar materials. • Do not use sand or other substances containing more than 1% crystalline silica as abrasive blasting materials. Substitute less hazardous materials. - Use NIOSH-approved respirators when exposure cannot be maintained below the permissible exposure level (PEL) (50 μg/m3) in accordance with WAC 296- 842 for Respirators and WAC [redacted identifier]. - Wear disposable or washable work clothes and shower if facilities are available. Vacuum (equipped with HEPA filtration) the dust from your clothes and change them into clean clothing before leaving the work site. Do not brush or blow the dust off! Do not bring dust home! • Restrict access to areas on the site where silica dust is being generated. • Avoid eating, drinking, and smoking in areas where silica dust is present. Wash your hands and face outside dusty areas before performing any of these activities. - Restrict housekeeping practices, such as sweeping, blowing, or disturbing dust that may expose workers to silica where feasible alternatives are available. • Wet dust before sweeping or vacuum dust (with a dust collection system equipped with HEPA f…

[10] Toolbox Talk: Silica

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CPWR TOOLBOX THE CENTER FOR CONSTRUCTION RESEARCH AND TRAINING TALK Silica is in many materials common at construction sites, such as sand, concrete, rock, mortar, and brick. During tasks that disturb these materials (cutting, grinding, blasting, and jackhammering, for example), dust containing crystalline silica can be released into the air. Workers who inhale this dust are at risk of developing serious, sometimes fatal illnesses such as a lung disease called silicosis, lung cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). It has also been linked to illnesses such as kidney disease. ## Frank's Story Frank has been a laborer for 22 years. His work frequently involved cutting, jackhammering, and drilling concrete. Water or vacuums were not used to control the dust, and he rarely was given a respirator. He began to have shortness of breath, wheezing, and tiredness after even short periods of work. Frank went to the doctor and told him about his work history. The doctor had Frank's x-ray read by a certified Class B reader because of the possible silica exposure. The results helped in diagnosing Frank's silicosis. Have you ever been exposed to silica dust from the work you were doing or from work going on nearby? # Silica ## * How could this illness have been prevented? ## Remember This ➤ Use vacuums and/or water to reduce dust at the source, before it becomes airborne. When these controls are not enough, use respiratory protection. - Keep dust control systems in good working order, and check vacuum filters and hoses regularly to make sure they are not clogged. - Do not use sand (or other substances containing more than 1% crystalline silica) for abrasive blasting. Substitute less hazardous materials. - If a less hazardous material is not available, use the appropriate respiratory protection. ➤ Avoid eating, drinking, and smoking in areas where there is silica dust. A good practice is to first leave the dusty area and wash your hands and face. …

[11] IHSA Safety Tool Box talks

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# Silica ## Explain dangers Silica dust and particles are a hazard on many jobsites. Silica dust and particles are generated from - Cutting and drilling concrete - Sandblasting concrete - Cutting and drilling masonry • Grinding concrete and masonry - Sanding drywall. If we breathe silica dust and particles into our lungs often enough and long enough, we can get a disease caused silicosis. Silicosis is a disabling, progressive, non-reversible, and often deadly lung disease. You may show no symptoms in the early stages and severe breathing problems in the later stages. Many workers with silicosis can develop other health problems such as tuberculosis and lung cancer. They can also develop complications such as heart disease. ## Identify controls There are three basic ways to control silica dust on a site: 1. Prevent silica dust from getting in the air 2. Remove silica dust from the air 3. Prevent workers from inhaling silica dust. When you're doing a job that generates silica particles—or working close by-you need protection. - Wear a particulate respirator if no other control methods are available. Minimum protection is a half-facepiece air-purifying respirator with an N95 filter. As silica dust increases, you'll need more protection. - An N95 filtering facepiece respirator (i.e., dust mask) may be appropriate when doing short- duration tasks, when local exhaust ventilation is available on tools, or when working outside. • Required personal protective equipment also includes eye protection and clothing that covers the body. Gloves or barrier cream is recommended for workers with sensitive skin. - Use WATER whenever possible to control dust. Wet cutting and other wet methods can keep dust levels very low. • If water isn't practical, attach a dust collector to the tool or equipment. - Use a HEPA vacuum to clean the work area and your work clothes. Do not allow silica dust to accumulate. Never use dry sweeping methods or compressed air t…

[12] IHSA Safety Tool Box talks

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# Silica-Cutting and grinding concrete ## Explain dangers You wouldn't breathe in carbon monoxide. So, why would you breathe in the cloud of dust that's created when you cut or grind concrete, brick, or stone? That cloud contains very tiny particles of silica. Your lungs have a tough time removing these particles. Over time, scars develop on your lungs. At first you may have no symptoms, but eventually you may develop shortness of breath, a severe cough, wheezing, and tightness of the chest. This can often be fatal. Cutting and grinding silica without protection can lead to disastrous outcomes. - You can develop silicosis after only a few weeks or months of exposure. - The disease can become worse even after you've stopped working with silica. - More and more studies are finding that silica exposure also causes lung cancer. Most concrete and masonry products contain high amounts of silica. When you cut or grind these products, you are being exposed to silica if measures are not taken. Although most diseases associated with silica exposure are not curable, they are preventable. ## Identify controls Here are some measures you can take to reduce the amount of silica in the air when cutting or grinding. ## PLAN BEFORE CUTTING OR GRINDING - Notify workers that you will be generating silica dust. Tell them to keep at least 10 m (3 ft) away. Post warning signs. - Do the work in an area away from other workers or do it when no workers are around. - If you can't prevent the spread of dust to nearby workers who are not protected, set up an enclosure around the cutting or grinding operation. • Use a respirator. An N95 filtering facepiece respirator (i.e., dust mask) may be appropriate when doing short-duration tasks, when local exhaust ventilation is available on tools, or when working outside. Otherwise, a more protective respirator is required. Minimum protection is a half-facepiece air-purifying respirator with an N95 filter. - Before starting work, make…

[13] OSHA Fact Sheet - OSHA’s Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard for Construction

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OSHA FactSheet CONTROL SILICA DUST Breathe Easier # OSHA's Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard for Construction Workers who are exposed to respirable crystalline silica dust are at increased risk of developing serious silica-related diseases. OSHA's standard requires employers to take steps to protect workers from exposure to respirable crystalline silica. ## What is Respirable Crystalline Silica? Crystalline silica is a common mineral that is found in construction materials such as sand, stone, concrete, brick, and mortar. When workers cut, grind, drill, or crush materials that contain crystalline silica, very small dust particles are created. These tiny particles (known as "respirable" particles) can travel deep into workers' lungs and cause silicosis, an incurable and sometimes deadly lung disease. Respirable crystalline silica also causes lung cancer, other potentially debilitating respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and kidney disease. In most cases, these diseases occur after years of exposure to respirable crystalline silica. ## How are Construction Workers Exposed to Respirable Crystalline Silica? Exposure to respirable crystalline silica can occur during common construction tasks, such as using masonry saws, grinders, drills, jackhammers and handheld powered chipping tools; operating vehicle- mounted drilling rigs; milling; operating crushing machines; using heavy equipment for demolition or certain other tasks; and during abrasive blasting and tunneling operations. About two million construction workers are exposed to respirable crystalline silica in over 600,000 workplaces. ## What Does the Standard Require? The standard (29 CFR 1926.1153) requires employers to limit worker exposures to respirable crystalline silica and to take other steps to protect workers. Employers can either use a control method laid out in Table 1 of the construction standard, or they can measure workers' exposure to silica and independen…

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