Sandblasting Safety
Sandblasting uses tiny particles of silica sand or other abrasive material to scour surfaces and to remove paint or rust. It is used heavily in the construction and automotive repair industries. The process of sandblasting can be very hazardous, and safety regulations should be enforced to protect workers.
Silicosis
An ever-present danger during sandblasting is breathing in the fine silica dust that is kicked into the air. This dust is invisible. If it is inhaled, it can cause irreparable damage to the lungs. This condition is called silicosis, and over time can lead to respiratory failure.
OSHA
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has found that workers who engage in sandblasting and other abrasive blasting jobs are at serious risk for health problems that have been linked to the inhalation of silica dust. It has established guidelines and hazard training to reduce the potential for future health complications and on-the-job injuries.
Equipment
When sandblasting, it is important to wear a snug-fitting helmet and full facial respirator with an outside oxygen source. This ensures a clean air supply that remains uncontaminated by the fine dust. The respirator should never be altered, and should create a tight seal over the worker's face. Equipment should be maintained, and any damaged equipment should be replaced.
On-the-Job Safety
Itt is important to use materials other than the crystalline silica if at all possible. Adequate ventilation should be utilized to keep contaminated air circulating away from the sandblasting site. Water sprays can also be used to make the air moist and weigh down the airborne dust particles.
After Sandblasting
Workers should wear disposable or washable clothing. Dust can become trapped in the fabric and breathed in, even after leaving the sandblasting work site. The garment should be thrown away or, if reusable, vacuumed off and then immediately washed. Workers should never eat, drink or smoke in the sandblasting area, and should wash their hands outside of the work zone before they engage in those types of activities. It is important for sandblasters to get regular health screenings that include chest x-rays to ensure that his lungs have not been damaged.
Silicosis
An ever-present danger during sandblasting is breathing in the fine silica dust that is kicked into the air. This dust is invisible. If it is inhaled, it can cause irreparable damage to the lungs. This condition is called silicosis, and over time can lead to respiratory failure.
OSHA
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has found that workers who engage in sandblasting and other abrasive blasting jobs are at serious risk for health problems that have been linked to the inhalation of silica dust. It has established guidelines and hazard training to reduce the potential for future health complications and on-the-job injuries.
Equipment
When sandblasting, it is important to wear a snug-fitting helmet and full facial respirator with an outside oxygen source. This ensures a clean air supply that remains uncontaminated by the fine dust. The respirator should never be altered, and should create a tight seal over the worker's face. Equipment should be maintained, and any damaged equipment should be replaced.
On-the-Job Safety
Itt is important to use materials other than the crystalline silica if at all possible. Adequate ventilation should be utilized to keep contaminated air circulating away from the sandblasting site. Water sprays can also be used to make the air moist and weigh down the airborne dust particles.
After Sandblasting
Workers should wear disposable or washable clothing. Dust can become trapped in the fabric and breathed in, even after leaving the sandblasting work site. The garment should be thrown away or, if reusable, vacuumed off and then immediately washed. Workers should never eat, drink or smoke in the sandblasting area, and should wash their hands outside of the work zone before they engage in those types of activities. It is important for sandblasters to get regular health screenings that include chest x-rays to ensure that his lungs have not been damaged.
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