Maximize Dry Dust Collection

Implementing the following steps to maximize dry dust collection will help protect workers from exposure during dust generating operations:

• Provide inside corner flaps for deck shrouds, or skirts.
• Install an air-ring seal where the drill pipe passes through the drill deck.
• Install or upgrade dust collector fans so that the collector airflow and bailing airflow ratio is greater than three to one (3:1).
• When it is safe to do so, raise the level of the drill in small steps as the job progresses to minimize dust leakage between the deck shrouds, or skirt, and the ground.
• Enclose the area around the collector with brattice cloth or a flexible hose to prevent recirculation of dust that has already been collected.
• Lower the deck shroud, or skirt, after it has been lifted to shovel cuttings.
• Use proper dust control equipment.
• Maintain dry dust collectors when performing rock drilling.
• Change collection filters according to the manufacturer's directions, or when they no longer work properly.
• Maintain deck shrouds, or skirts. Replace torn shroud material, and make sure that the shroud is as long as possible, without it being dragged on the ground when the drill is lowered.

To learn more about Silica Safety visit our General & Maritime Silica Safety Online Training web page.