Page:OSHA3697.pdf/2

How to Protect Workers from Exposure to Abrasive Blasting Materials Each abrasive blasting operation is unique, involving different surfaces, coatings, blast material, and working conditions. Before beginning work, employers should identify the hazards and assign a knowledgeable person trained to recognize hazards and with the authority to quickly take corrective action to eliminate them. Use engineering and administrative controls, personal protective equipment (PPE), including respiratory protection, and training to protect workers involved in abrasive blasting activities. Engineering controls, such as substitution, isolation, containment, and ventilation are the primary means of preventing or reducing exposures to airborne hazards during abrasive blasting operations. Administrative controls, including the use of good work and personal hygiene practices, can also reduce exposure. When engineering and administrative controls cannot keep exposures to hazardous materials below OSHA permissible exposure limits, respiratory protection must be used. Abrasive blasting using a dust collection system with multiple exhaust ducts. (Photo courtesy of Flexaust, Inc. This equipment is shown for illustrative purposes only and is not intended as an endorsement by OSHA of this company, its products or services.)

Engineering Controls 1. Substitution Use a less toxic abrasive blasting material. Use abrasives that can be delivered with water (slurry) to reduce dust. 2. Isolation and Containment Use barriers and curtain walls to isolate the blasting operation from other workers. Use blast rooms or blast cabinets for smaller operations. Use restricted areas for non-enclosed blasting operations. Keep coworkers away from the blaster. 3. Ventilation Use exhaust ventilation systems in containment structures to capture dust. Employers can use OSHA’s free On-site Consultation Program for advice on safety and health issues. Administrative Controls Perform routine cleanup using wet methods or HEPA filtered vacuuming to minimize the accumulation of toxic dusts. Do not use compressed air to clean as this will create dust in the air. Clean and decontaminate tarps and other equipment on the worksite. Schedule blasting when the least number of workers are at the site. Avoid blasting in windy conditions to prevent the spread of any hazardous materials. Personal Hygiene Practices Prohibit eating, drinking, or using tobacco products in blasting areas. Provide wash stations so workers can wash their hands and face routinely and before eating, drinking, or smoking. Vacuum or remove contaminated work clothes before eating, drinking or smoking.