Short-Term Approaches to Limit Silica Exposure

Once an employer determines that the working conditions at a facility may expose workers to silica, the employer should establish and implement a respiratory protection program that meets guidelines. Once these approaches are in place, the employer should then implement improved engineering controls and work processes. NIOSH recommends that, as soon as possible, employers at hydraulic fracturing operations implement the following short-term work practice changes:

• Require workers to cap unused fill points on sand movers. This helps to prevent silica dust from escaping during handling.
• Shorten the distance between the sand transfer belt and the T-belts and blender hoppers. A shorter drop height reduces the amount of dust created during transfers.
• Reduce the number of workers and the amount of time that workers spend in areas where high levels of silica dust are present.
• Substitute workers with remote automation, when possible.
• Spray water on dusty areas on roads and well sites.

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