Eliminate or Reduce the Risk of Silica Flour

The following work practices are recommended for eliminating or reducing the risk of exposure to silica flour:

• Work procedures should be designed to reduce dust.
• Work clothes should be vacuumed before removal.
• General housekeeping duties should be meticulously performed so that there is no dust accumulation on machinery, beams, corners, and other surfaces. Such accumulations often contain dust particles that become airborne when disturbed. Dustless methods of cleaning, such as vacuuming or wetting down, should be used. Dry sweeping or blowing with compressed air should be avoided, because it pushes dust into the air that workers are breathing.
• Prompt attention should also be given to the cleanup of spills, preventive maintenance, and timely repair of equipment.

Again, personal protective equipment is not recommended as a primary means of control. Silica flour exposure should only be controlled with respirators in the following situations:

• While installing and implementing engineering or work practice controls
• In work situations in which engineering and work practice controls cannot be implemented
• During the major overhaul and repair of equipment
• When entry into tanks or closed vessels is required
• In emergency situations

Packaged silica flour should be labeled correctly, and health warnings should be placed on each container to alert all parties to the hazards of silica flour.

To learn more about Construction Silica visit our Construction Silica Safety Online Training web page.