Respirable Silica Dust Protection, Phase II: What You Need to Know

By Jim Bohn

The OSHA regulation outlining requirements for exposure to respirable silica dust has been in place for months. But not every organization has taken the steps necessary to meet the guidelines. This is a reminder that every company that works with concrete, stone or other masonry materials must meet the OSHA requirements.

(Q) What if you’re working in a small area where the dust suction attachment won’t fit?

Dust exposure, regardless of the environment, must be controlled. If you’re in an environment where your power tool system is too big, this will require a company to conduct independent testing, with specific documentation on exposure levels and what steps a worker must take to stay below the PEL (0.5mg/m3: 50 micrograms per cubic meter) over a time-weighted, eight-hour day.

(Q) Can you use tools from one brand and an attachment from a different brand?

Most tool brands have attachments that fit their tool(s) due to specific design elements of the tools (e.g., rotary hammer tube size variations, collar configuration on a grinder, etc.) Most attachments are brand specific. The exceptions are dust suction drilling attachments and universal collar dust shrouds.

(Q) Can a dust extractor (vacuum) from one brand be used with another brand of tools and attachments?

Yes, but you do need to be sure that these three requirements are met: 1) Minimum of 25 cfm per 1 inch of grinder wheel, 2) filter cleaning system (automatic or semi-automatic) and 3) 99 percent filtration filter (HEPA is preferred). Also, check to see if a branded-tool system requires any other specification by referring to the appropriate owner’s manual.

(Q) What is the proper disposal procedure for concrete dust?

Every user who creates respirable silica dust must understand their responsibility in the collection and also disposal of silica dust. It’s highly recommended to use a fleece bag. These are usually multi-ply fabric bags that help manage air equilibrium and collect .3 microns or larger dust particles. It also contains a port-closing mechanism for containment after removing the bag from the vacuum canister’s port. Finally, it’s strong enough to withstand the weight of dust collected and is not subject to tearing.

(Q) Will there be a special place for users to dispose of a full dust collection bag separate from a regular dumpster?

Take the bag (80 percent full) and place it in a standard garbage dumpster. Be careful that it’s not going to be exposed to potential damage if other items are placed in the same dumpster on top of it. The bag must not break open at any time.

(Q) Are HEPA filers required in Table 1?

HEPA filters are not required. The OSHA Silica Dust Regulation states that a filter needs to have 99 percent filtration to meet the guideline. Many non-HEPA filters meet this standard, but may not withstand the frequency of dust extractor filter cleaning that’s required due to fineness of silica dust clogging the filter (if not cleaned often). Use a HEPA filter 1) so OSHA agents know its filtration is rated 99 percent effective, 2) it offers greater durability versus a standard filter and 3) it saves money in the long term.

(Q) Is there a limit for length of a vacuum hose?

Beyond 16 feet, the expected efficiency of the dust extractor decreases greatly. Users may have dust-control performance issues beyond 16 feet.

(Q) What about jobsite dust from surrounding work areas? How can this be distinguished from cutting/grinding operations?

Dust generated in and around the jobsite must be compliant with the established control plan for that site. Any levels that exceed the dust control plan should be reported immediately. It doesn’t matter who creates the dust, everyone must be safe from exposure.

Jim Bohn is director, strategic development – North America for Robert Bosch Tool Corporation.