Long-Term Approaches to Limit Silica Exposure

Once the short-term changes in work practices are implemented, hydraulic fracturing employers should make changes in their equipment, as follows:

• Install enclosures wherever dust is released. For example, thick, plastic staging curtains can be placed around the sand movers and sand transfer belts.
• Install enclosed cabs or booths. These enclosures should include HEPA filtration systems and climate controls to ensure worker protection.
• Install exhaust ventilation and dust collection systems wherever it is feasible to do so.
• Retrofit transfer belts on sand movers with screw augers. A screw auger system greatly reduces the amount of dust released.

Finally, employers should make an ongoing effort to keep informed about the latest technologies and best practice recommendations to ensure the greatest levels of protection from silica exposure.

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