Controlling Exposure to Silica
To protect workers from the serious health risks associated with respirable crystalline silica, OSHA’s standard 29 CFR 1926.1153 requires employers to use a combination of engineering controls, work practice controls, and personal protective equipment (PPE).
Stop Silicosis
The control measures below are intended to reduce silica dust generation and limit worker exposure to levels below the permissible exposure limit (PEL).
Engineering controls are the primary and most effective means of reducing silica dust at the source.
- Wet Methods: Using water sprays or misting systems to suppress dust during cutting, drilling, or grinding.
- Vacuum Dust Collection: Attaching tools to vacuum systems with HEPA filters to capture dust as it's generated.
- Isolation: Enclosing high-dust operations or using remote-controlled equipment to remove workers from the exposure area.
- Ventilation: Local exhaust ventilation (LEV) systems to remove contaminated air from the work area.
Work practice controls involve changes in how tasks are performed to minimize dust production and exposure.
- Using tools correctly: Following manufacturer instructions for dust suppression equipment.
- Limiting dry sweeping: Avoiding dry sweeping or using compressed air; instead, use wet cleaning methods or HEPA-filtered vacuums.
- Minimizing time near exposure sources: Reducing the amount of time workers spend in high-dust zones.
- Housekeeping: Regularly cleaning work areas to prevent dust accumulation.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): PPE is used in conjunction with other control measures as an additional defense when engineering and work practice controls do not reduce exposure below the PEL.
- Respirators: Must be used when exposure exceeds the PEL and should be part of a comprehensive respiratory protection program.
- Protective Clothing: Coveralls or disposable garments to prevent contamination of personal clothing.
- Eye and Face Protection: Goggles or face shields when cutting or grinding materials that may create flying debris in addition to dust.
More information can be found at OSHA's Crystalline Silica Overview Website and in the Small Entity Compliance Guide for the Respirable Crystalline Silica Standard for Construction.
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9-3. Why are wet methods effective in controlling silica dust exposure?
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