Using a Saw Muzzle on a Walk Behind Rolling Cart

May 3rd, 2010

The Saw Muzzle is excellent for dustless cutting of faux grout lines and scoring. When used with a Blade Roller™, it is an efficient and inexpensive way to combine dustless cutting (Cutting Faux Grout Lines with a Saw Muzzle) with a rolling cart for relatively small jobs.

Larger jobs such as laying new cable in big box stores involve much more cutting; sometimes up to 15 lineal miles. On jobs like these, it is impractical to use Blade Roller.

For jobs like these, the rolling cart of choice is the Saw Buster. This is a solidly built walk behind rolling cart that triggers the saw from the handle. It is made from heavy gauge metal and wheels are molded from tough polyurethene. It is designed to mount any of the worm drive right bladed saws and the handle is adjustable to any position.

The long wheel base gives excellent tracking but it is always recommended to use a guide where perfectly straight lines are specified. When fitted with a standard Model 77 Skil™ or Bosch™ worm drive saw, the combined weight of almost 40 pounds provides a stable platform that is easily used without worker fatigue for long periods in the standup position. The result will be clean straight lines, a satisfied customer and a worker without sore knees.

On jobs of this size, it is recommended that one of the better vacuums be used. A complete system with a certified HEPA vacuum is available on the Vacuum and Systems page of our website

The Saw Muzzle and Saw Buster can also be purchased individually on our website on the Saw Muzzle page and the accessories page.Saw Buster

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RRP Regulations

April 24th, 2010

As of today (4/22/10) a sweeping set of regulations governing the removal of lead paint from the workplace becomes effective. It is known as the Renovation, Repair and Painting or the RRP rule and it affects work done on all structures built before 1978.

The following three websites will give you all you need to know about the RRP rule. The 10 most important questions site is a quick review of the RRP rule and should be read first.

The EPA site has the most comprehensive overview of the RRP rule and the EPA PowerPoint presentation on the RRP rule is an easy to understand summary of the RRP rule in a PowerPoint format.

The 10 most important questions and Answers about the RRP Rule
http://www.wondermakers.com/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=-u44UnT3sDE%3D&tabid=71

US Government EPA web site in the RRP Rule
http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm

EPA PowerPoint presentation on the RRP Rule
http://www.epa.gov/region6/6dra/oejta/schools-seminar/rrp_presentation_tribalschools.pdf

At Dust Collection Products, we have been dealing with toxic dusts for over 19 years and we are very familiar with the problems and the solutions associated with toxic dust removal.

Please call us for personalized technical assistance for all your RRP rule, OSHA and EPA toxic dust compliance needs.

LEAD RRP Quick Fact Sheet

Do you remodel or renovate homes built before 1978?

On April 22, 2010, the Environmental Protection Agency’s Lead RRP (40 CFR, Part 745, Subpart E) will go into effect. The new rule requires contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 to be certified and follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination. Among these required work practices are the use of a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner, to minimize dust and thoroughly clean the work area.

According to the RRP rule:

  • Walls must be cleaned starting at the ceiling and working down to the floor by either vacuuming with a HEPA vacuum or wiping with a damp cloth.
  • Remaining surfaces are to be cleaned by thoroughly vacuuming all remaining surfaces and objects in the work area, including furniture and fixtures, with a HEPA vacuum. The HEPA vacuum must be equipped with a beater bar when vacuuming carpets and rugs.
  • The use of machines that remove lead-based paint through high speed operation such as sanding, grinding, power planing, needle gun, abrasive blasting, or sandblasting, is prohibited unless such machinesare used with HEPA exhaust control.The Nilfisk GM80 features multistage filtration, with HEPA exhaust filter to capture 99.97% of dust, down to and including 0.3 microns

So, what does the EPA mean by a HEPA vacuum cleaner? In 40 CFR 745.83, the EPA states:

“HEPA vacuum means a vacuum cleaner which has been designed with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter as the last filtration stage. A HEPA filter is a filter that is capable of capturing particles of 0.3 microns with 99.97% efficiency. The vacuum cleaner must be designed so that all the air drawn into the machine is expelled through the HEPA filter with none of the air leaking past it.”

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Common renovation activities like sanding, cutting, and demolition can create hazardous lead dust and chips by disturbing lead-based paint, which can be harmful to adults and children.

Q. What is the EPA’s Lead RRP and when does it go into effect?

A. Common renovation activities like sanding, cutting, and demolition can create hazardous lead dust and chips by disturbing lead-based paint, which can be harmful to adults and children. To protect against this risk, the EPA issued a rule on April 22, 2008, requiring the use of lead-safe practices and other actions aimed at preventing lead poisoning. Under the rule, beginning on April 22, 2010, contractors performing renovation, repair and painting projects that disturb lead-based paint in homes, child care facilities, and schools built before 1978 must be certified and must follow specific work practices to prevent lead contamination.

Q. What are the penalties for not complying with the Lead RRP?

A. Besides a private lawsuit by the homeowner, fines for not complying with the RRP can run upwards of $32,500 per violation, per day. (Source: Small Entity Compliance Guide to Renovate Right)

Q. I’m a contractor. How do I get certified?

A. To find your nearest EPA-accredited training provider, visit: http://cfpub.epa.gov/flpp/searchrrp_training.htm

Q. I’m a home owner/landlord/property manger. How do I know if my contractor is certified?

A. To find your nearest EPA certified firm, visit: http://cfpub.epa.gov/flpp/searchrrp_firm.htm

Q. Nilfisk has a comprehensive line of industrial vacuums. What ones would you recommend for lead abatement?

A. The following vacuums are our most popular for lead abatement; each one exceeds the requirements for safely collecting lead debris as outlined in the RRP.

Nilfisk RRP Vacuum

  • Nilfisk GD 10 Back
  • Nilfisk RRP Vacuum / Nilfisk GD 930
  • Nilfisk UZ 934
  • Nilfisk GM 80 and 80i
  • Nilfisk Eliminator I
  • Nilfisk Eliminator II
  • Nilfisk CFM 118 (HEPA filter model available)

Q. What is the difference between Nilfisk’s turbo nozzle and power nozzle?

A. Both the turbo nozzle and power nozzle are carpet cleaning tools equipped with a rotating beater bar that connect to the vacuum’s hose. The turbo nozzle uses the working air of the vacuum to spin the beaterbar, while the power nozzle’s beater bar is driven by electricity. Both are extremely effective in agitating the carpet to collect heavy lead debris which may have settled in the fibers.

A 32 mm turbo nozzle (part # 56649625) is available as an accessory on these machines:

Nilfisk UZ 934
Nilfisk GD 10 Back
Nilfisk RRP Vacuum / Nilfisk GD 930

A 38 mm turbo nozzle (part # 01719415) is available as an accessory on these machines:

Nilfisk Eliminator I
Nilfisk Eliminator II
Nilfisk CFM 118 (additional accessories required)

The electrified power nozzle is available as an accessory on these machines (part numbers differ, ask our customer service agents or your local dealer for more information):

Nilfisk RRP Vacuum / Nilfisk GD 930
Nilfisk GM 80

Q. Can I use my shop-style vacuum to collect lead debris?

A. According to the EPA’s website, “renovation firms should look for a vacuum cleaner that was designed to be operated with a HEPA filter, rather than a shop vacuum that can be fitted with a HEPA filter in placeof the original basic filter.”

Resources

EPA’s Lead RRP:
http://www.epa.gov/lead/pubs/renovation.htm

Lead Safe Online Training Institute:
https://leadsafeonline.complyability.com/LeadSafe/login.aspx

To learn more about Nilfisk HEPA-filtered vacuums for the Lead RRP, visit www.nilfiskcfm.com or call 1-800-645-3475.

Nilfisk Lead RRP Vacuums

Nilfisk HEPA vacuum cleaners exceed the EPA’s definition of a HEPA vacuum and are equipped to safely collect hazardous lead dust generated during renovations.

  • Equipped with multi-stage filtration, including a tested and certified HEPA filter, Nilfisk HEPA vacuums safely capture 99.97% of debris, down to and including 0.3 microns.
  • Nilfisk HEPA vacuums for lead abatement can be equipped with optional turbo and/or power nozzles. These are floor tools equipped with a carpet beater bar to dislodge heavy lead particulate that may be embedded in the carpet. For more information on these nozzle options, please see our FAQs on the next page.
  • Nilfisk HEPA vacuums can be used in conjunction with vacuum-assisted power tools to collect hazardous lead debris at the source.

Note: The EPA does NOT recommend or certify any manufacturers’ vacuums.

We carry a complete line of HEPA certified vacuums from one of the best vacuum manufacturers in the world. Nilfisk is a Danish company that produces the highest quality vacuums available. Their vacuums come with a 2-year warranty. They range from backpack style vacuums with an incredible 144CFM and 99” of static lift to multi station vacuums capable of handling up to five grinders at one time.

GD10 Back Vacuum

CLICK TO ENLARGE

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How to Efficiently Use the Saw Muzzle GP

March 14th, 2010

The Saw Muzzle GP is made to work with Stihl™, Makita™, Husky™ Partner™ and other Gas-powered saws. It can be up to 95% efficient when used with a strong industrial vacuum (see primer on vacuums) and when used for the proper applications.

The most common and efficient use of the Saw Muzzle is for making long cuts in one pass. Using the Saw Muzzle GP in this way will protect the operators lungs and prolong the life of the gas powered saw.

An understanding of how the Saw Muzzle GP works will lead the operator to maximize its efficiency.

Pull the Saw Toward the Operator

The most important thing to remember about the Saw Muzzle GP is that the dust is swept into the collection chamber of the Saw Muzzle by the cutting action of the blade in the new groove. Because the blade kicks the dust backwards, the saw must be pulled toward the operator. By keeping the blade in the new groove, the dust will be swept into the Saw Muzzle collection chamber.

If the saw is allowed to run away from the operator, up to 50% of the dust will be shot down the groove that was just cut and it will escape.

After the operator gets used to it, he will find that pulling the saw is actually more ergonomically comfortable and easier on his back.

Snap a Line Off the Side of the Cut

When the saw is pulled toward the operator, it is impossible to see the blade for an accurate cut. This is easily resolved by snapping a line off the left side of the desired cut that is the width of the collection chamber. The Saw Muzzle collection chamber has a 4” long straight edge that makes it ideal to use for a guide… and the line won’t be covered in dust.

The First Cut is the Cleanest

If possible, cut the complete depth in one pass. If a second pass is made, even if the operator is pulling the saw, some dust will escape down the groove made by the first cut.

Depth of Cut

Because of its design, the Saw Muzzle will limit the depth of cut to approximately 3” even though a 5” cut is possible. Some operators have removed a wedge shaped piece of the dust guard off to allow for a deeper cut. It is not recommended to do this but if it is done, check first with the manufacturer of the saw to see if it voids the warranty.

The Saw Muzzle GP will not be a satisfactory dust collector when it is used for cutting lightweight roofing tiles, cinder block, brick or other short masonry building materials.

It is very effective when cutting long runs in concrete, pavers or other materials where the operator can drop the blade into a groove and make long, constant depth cuts.

The Saw Muzzle GP on a Stihl saw

The Saw Muzzle GP on a Stihl saw

The Saw Muzzle GP on a Partner Saw

The Saw Muzzle GP on a Partner Saw

The Saw Muzzle GP on a Makita Saw

The Saw Muzzle GP on a Makita Saw

The Saw Muzzle GP is also available for the Partner electric cutoff saws

The Saw Muzzle GP is also available for the Partner electric cutoff saws

Saw Muzzle GP Instructions

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Techniques for Efficient Use of the Saw Muzzle GP Video

March 9th, 2010

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Using the Dust Muzzle DC for Hole Saws

March 6th, 2010

The 8” Dust Muzzle DC is a hands-off dust collector that can be easily used for dustless cutting with hole saws and core bits. It comes in two sizes. The 2.375” model, DM2DC will handle bits from 1-2” and the DM3DC handles bits from 2-3”.

The Dust Muzzle DC can be used on the floor, vertical walls or overhead. Attach the hose, turn on the vacuum and place the Dust Muzzle so it is centered over center point of the hole. If the surface of the work is relatively smooth, the Dust Muzzle DC will self adhere to the work. You are now ready to drill dustless.

The Dust Muzzle DC used on a wall.

The Dust Muzzle DC used on a wall.

The Dust Muzzle DC used to drill overhead.

The Dust Muzzle DC has an inner ring with small castellations.

How the Dust Muzzle DC Works

The Dust Muzzle DC has an inner ring with small castellations around the perimeter. When vacuum is applied to the exhaust port, air is pulled through the castellations into the inner ring of the Dust Muzzle where it is then sent out the exhaust port and into the vacuum.

Because the inner ring is co-planar with the skirt of the Dust Muzzle DC, a strong suction is created within the Dust Muzzle DC that holds the Dust Muzzle up to the wall or ceiling where it is being used.

Requirements for Dustless Grinding with the Dust Muzzle DC

  • Vacuum with a minimum of 120CFM and a minimum of 80” static lift.
  • 4 ft. of lightweight hose.
  • Note: The Dust Muzzle DC will not self adhere to rough surfaces.

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How to Use the Adapter Ring for the Dust Muzzle Ultra

March 2nd, 2010

The stretchable adapter ring that comes with the Dust Muzzle Ultra is not needed on all grinders. It is only used on grinders with the smaller bearing housings to prevent the hose clamp from pinching off.

Dust Muzzle Ultra Instructions

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The stretchable adapter ring that comes with the Dust Muzzle Ultra is not needed on all grinders. It is only used on grinders with the smaller bearing housings to prevent the hose clamp from pinching off.

The bearing housing is the part of the grinder indicted by #2 in the illustration. The bearing housing will vary in diameter depending on which grinder you own.

The upstanding fingers (3#in the illustration) are mode to collapse to accommodate different bearing housing diameters but if the bearing housing is too small, the hose clamp will “pinch off”, making it very difficult to attach the Dust Muzzle Ultra to the grinder.

If the bearing housing is too small, the hose clamp will pinch off the upstanding fingers of the Dust Muzzle Ultra.

If the bearing housing is too small, the hose clamp will pinch off the upstanding fingers of the Dust Muzzle Ultra.

The purpose of the stretchable adapter ring (#1 in the illustration) is to make a larger bearing housing so hose clamp pinch off does not occur.

The stretchable ring creates a larger bearing housing.

The stretchable ring creates a larger bearing housing.

When the adapter ring is put onto the bearing housing, it presses into the annular ring of the bearing housing, providing a firm grip on the grinder head.

When the adapter ring is put onto the bearing housing, it presses into the annular ring of the bearing housing, providing a firm grip on the grinder head.

This is the stretchable adapter ring on a Makita GA 7911. It has a 2” bearing housing. Without the adapter ring on this grinder, the hose clamp would pinch off.

This is the stretchable adapter ring on a Makita GA 7911. It has a 2” bearing housing. Without the adapter ring on this grinder, the hose clamp would pinch off.

This is the Dust Muzzle Ultra on a Bosch 7” grinder. It has a 2.91” bearing housing. No adapter ring is needed.

Recommended uses of the Adapter Ring:

4-5” Grinders

Bearing housing diameters less than 1.80” – Yes

Bearing housing diameters greater than 1.80” - Not needed

7-9” Grinders

Bearing housing diameters less than 2.50” – Yes

Bearing housing diameters greater than 2.50” – Not needed

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A Primer on Vacuums

February 28th, 2010

All dust collectors, regardless of the model or design, depend on a vacuum to remove the dust from the point of origin. Because of this, it is important to know how to evaluate different vacuums.

There are three important things to look for in a vacuum: CFM, static lift and filtration.

CFM

CFM is an abbreviation for cubic feet per minute. This is a measure of the volume of air the vacuum is moving. Most vacuums move enough air to work with point of origin dust collectors…at least for a few minutes. But on weak vacuums, when the filters start to load up, the CFM begins to drop.

Static Lift

Whereas CFM measures the volume of air moved, static lift measures the ability to keep the air moving under a load. Static lift is measured in inches. It can be equated to torque on a motor. If a vacuum has 80” of lift, it means it can lift a column of water 80” off the ground.

When a filter is loaded up with fine dust, it becomes more difficult to pull air through the pores. A vacuum that delivers 120CFM with 90” of lift will continue to pull a large volume of air through the filter whereas a vacuum that delivers 120CFM with 40” of lift will tend to see a substantial drop in the CFM pulled through the hose. This will result in loss of efficiency for the dust collector.

Filtration

There are many types of good filtration systems. They run from pulse type back flush systems to paper and plastic disposable filters.

The most cost effective systems for the lower priced vacuum systems use a disposable paper or woven plastic filter. They typically hold 5-20 pounds of silica dust. They filter down to .5 microns which is close to the HEPA (High Efficiency Particle Absorbing) spec of .3 microns. When they are full of dust, they are removed from the vacuum and thrown away. They are typically used with a secondary filter that protects the motor and a HEPA downstream filter to remove particles from the exhaust.

Filter systems with poor performance are the pleated filters similar to the air filter on a carburetor or a pleated filter with a flannel bag overcoat. They tend to clog easily, choking down airflow. They are often found on home type garage vacuums that are designed for picking up leaves, dirt and large sawdust. They are generally not suitable for silica, asbestos or fiberglass dust.

In addition to CFM, lift and filtration, the operator should also be aware of how the vacuum is constructed and the true power of the motor.

A bypass motor is always the best design. With this design, the dust is not brought through the motor, thereby prolonging motor life, particularly the brushes and armature. If the vacuum is not equipped with a bypass motor, be sure it has a secondary filter downstream of the disposable filter to further protect the motor in case the disposable bag filter fails.

Lastly, be sure you know how to read the power of the motor. Many vacuums are advertised as 5hp motors. Closer examination will show the fine print to read 5hp at peak power. This is deceptive. All motors draw very high amperage for a few milliseconds upon starting. In almost all cases, the vacuums advertising 5 or 6 hp are actually drawing 30-36 amps on startup after which they settle down to 6 amps. These are really 1 hp motors.

Power in an electric is rated at 1 hp per 6 amps. If a 110/120V motor draws 12 amps continuously, it is a true 2 hp motor.

What is needed to run Dust Collection Products dust collectors?

The Dust Muzzles, Crack Chasers and Saw Muzzle for the 7” worm drive saws will be very efficient if they have a steady 80 CFM of airflow through the exhaust port. This airflow can be well maintained if the vacuum has at least 80” of static lift.

The Saw Muzzle GP for the gas-powered saws runs best with a steady 110 CFM and at least 80” of static lift.

A solid vacuum would have these specs:

  • 1.8 hp (11 amps)
  • Disposable filter and backup filter
  • 80” static lift
  • 120 CFM

The Nilfisk Eliminator is a very strong, industrial vacuum that is capable of running all the Dust Collection products including the Saw Muzzle for Gas-Powered saws at over 95% efficiency.

Features and Specs

  • HEPA certified
  • 2 year Manufacturers Warranty
  • 95” of Lift
  • Over 130cfm Airflow
  • Triple Filter System
  • 50’ Power cord
  • Filter Efficiency 99.97% @ .3 Microns
  • Micro Pre-Filters Hold up to 20 Pounds of Dust
  • Lightweight
  • Noise level: 65db
  • 1350 watts: 120VAC/11.2 Amps

Nilfisk Eliminator 1

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How to Prepare a Floor for Stains and Overlays

February 27th, 2010

Dustless preparation of a floor to accept stains and overlays depends upon what coatings are on the old floor. It may be a multi-step process requiring 2-3 different abrasives.

The three wheels that are used in prepping floors are the silica carbide wheel, the double row diamond cup wheel and the turbo diamond cup wheel. These are all available in both 4-5” and 7” diameters.

Double Row Wheel, Silica Carbide Wheel and Turbo Wheel
(L to R) Double row wheel, silica carbide wheel and turbo wheel

If a floor has old paint, epoxy or other soft material on it, the silica carbide wheel (top of photo) is the most efficient way to remove the coatings. It is a 16 grit wheel designed to remove a lot of material very quickly. If the operator were to use a diamond cup wheel for this job it would go very slowly and the wheel would load up, requiring constant dressing.

Do not lean on the wheel. It should be swept lightly over the surface so that only the coating is removed. This also lengthens the life of the silica carbide wheel. Leave the profiling of the concrete to the diamond cup wheels.

If a silica carbide wheel is used with the large Dust Muzzle Ultra (DMU8), the operator will need to purchase an arbor extender so the wheel will extend to the bottom of the Dust Muzzle skirt.

Silica Carbide Wheel
A silica carbide wheel with an arbor extender

The job of profiling the concrete can be done with either a double row wheel or a turbo wheel depending upon what type of finish is acceptable.

Double Row Wheels

The double row wheel is typically more aggressive and can remove the material faster than a turbo wheel, but it can cause swirl marks. If a thick overlay is being used, some light swirl marks can probably be tolerated.

Turbo Wheels

These are good all-purpose wheels. They typically are less aggressive than a double row wheel but held level to the work tend to leave no marks. When a very smooth finish is needed, this is the best wheel to use.

Dust Collection

Dust Muzzles are available for both the 4-5” and the 7” diamond wheels and silica carbide wheels. The arbor extender is only needed when using the 7” silica carbide wheel with the large Dust Muzzle Ultra (DMU8). It is not needed with the 4-5” Dust Muzzle Ultra (DMU5).

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Cutting Faux Grout Lines & Dustless Concrete Cutting

February 25th, 2010

Dustless concrete cutting can be achieved when cutting faux grout lines that are commonly seen in decorative floors, either because they were specified or as an afterthought. In some cases the operator makes a “kiss cut” of less than ¼” depth and in other cases a slightly deeper cut is made and the groove is re-grouted.

In either case, a dustless, die-straight ¼” wide faux grout line can be made using a combination of three of our products: The Saw Muzzle, the Blade Roller and our .250” wide faux grout line blade.

The Saw Muzzle, the Blade Roller and our .250” wide faux grout line blade.

The Saw Muzzle is the Dust Collector dustless concrete cutting with Skil Saws. It will fit any Skil™, Bosch™, Makita™, Milwaukee™ or DeWalt™ left bladed saw. These are generally the low rpm saws referred to as worm drive or hypoid saws. Please specify the type of saw being used when ordering.

The optimum blade for cutting faux grout lines is the 7” x .250” tuck pointing blade. We have these manufactured with the diamond knockout so they fit the worm drive saws. They are typically set to cut 3/16 to ¼” deep.

The optimum blade for cutting faux grout lines is the 7” x .250” tuck pointing blade. We have these manufactured with the diamond knockout so they fit the worm drive saws. They are typically set to cut 3/16 to ¼” deep. When used with an industrial grade vacuum and the Saw Muzzle, dustless concrete cutting can be achieved up to the 99% level.

The optimum blade for cutting faux grout lines is the 7” x .250” tuck pointing blade. We have these manufactured with the diamond knockout so they fit the worm drive saws. They are typically set to cut 3/16 to ¼” deep.

When the Skil saw and the Saw Muzzle are mounted on a Blade Roller, the axle bolts of the Blade Roller can be run along a guide for a perfectly straight line.

For continuous production work when doing dustless concrete cutting, this same system is also available with the Saw Buster. This is a stand up rolling cart and it replaces the Blade Roller. The Saw Buster allows the worker to get off his knees. It is more expensive but it is a substantially more solid rolling cart that triggers the saw from the handle.

Always use an industrial 2hp vacuum when operating the Saw Muzzle on either the Blade Roller or the Saw Buster.

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The Hazards of Silica Dust

February 24th, 2010

Crystalline silica is a common mineral in the earth’s crust, and is found in many types of rock including sand, quartz, and granite. Silica is present in both work and non-work environments, and exposure to crystalline silica dust has long been known to cause a disease called silicosis. When you inhale crystalline silica the lung tissue reacts by developing fibrous tissue around trapped silica particles. This condition of the lung is called silicosis.

Due to the extensive use of concrete and masonry products in buildings today, construction workers have a potential exposure to crystalline silica. Operations such as dumping of rock, jack hammering, abrasive blasting, sawing, drilling or demolition of concrete and masonry structures are some of the activities that could produce this exposure.

Silica sand or other substances containing more than 1% crystalline silica should never be used as abrasive blasting materials. Where silica exceeds 1% of the content, less hazardous materials should be substituted. In addition, always follow safe work practices when there is possible exposure to silica dust.

FOR APPROPRIATE PROTECTION:

  • Keep awareness high–which is the key to preventing silicosis. Recognize when silica dust may be generated and plan ahead to eliminate or control the dust at the source.
  • Use proper respiratory protection when point of operation controls cannot keep exposures below the recommended exposure limit.
  • Use Type CE pressure-demand, or positive-pressure, abrasive-blasting respirators when sandblasting.
  • Always use dust control systems when they are available and keep them well maintained.
  • Be aware that high silica concentrations can occur inside and outside enclosed areas during operations such as concrete or masonry sawing or abrasive blasting.
  • Do not eat, drink, or smoke in areas where sandblasting is being done, or where silica dust is being generated.
  • Wear disposable or washable over-garments at the work site.
  • Wash your hands and face before eating, drinking, or smoking and vacuum (don’t blow) dust from your clothing.
  • Shower if possible and change into clean clothes before leaving the job site to prevent contamination of cars, homes, and other work areas.

Lungs take care of normal dust. Airborne dust and dirt is common at worksites–both at home and on the job. Fortunately, the body’s respiratory system does a good of job filtering out dust and most foreign bodies. Fine particulates such as asbestos and silica, however, are so tiny they can get past our filtering system. This may cause serious lung problems over an extended period of time if protection or controls are not used. Respect these tiny invaders. Use the appropriate personal protective equipment and safety precautions.

For more information on how to keep your work environment free of dust and toxic airborne materials please contact us today.

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