Page 45 - Occupational Health & Safety, May 2018

on daily operations. However, there are a few things operators will need to keep in mind to ensure the drill operates as efficiently as possible. Purging should be done every two or three sets of holes. This removes any built-up dust from the filter so the system will continue to collect dust with optimal efficiency. Operators also will need to occasionally empty the collection bucket or bag.
Respiratory Protection
Even though collection systems are extremely effective at captur- ing and containing dust, OSHA’s Table 1 requirements require employers to also provide operators with another level of protec- tion via respirators with an assigned protection factor of 10. The respirator manufacturer 3M explains this as meaning the respira- tor will reduce the user’s exposure to dust by a factor of 10. So, when fitted and used properly, an APF 10 filter can safely be used where hazardous concentrations are up to 10 times the Permis- sible Exposure Limit.
Both filtering facepieces, also known as dust masks, and elasto- meric half-mask respirators offer the appropriate protection factor, using negative pressure as the user inhales and a filtration method to purify the air. Dust masks, however, cost less and can be thrown away once they’ve reached their end of life. If the mask is damaged, soiled, or its shape has been compromised, the mask can no lon- ger provide adequate protection and should be tossed. Elastomeric half-mask respirators feature washable filters or disposable rubber- like facepieces.
To ensure the respirator fits the operator and can effectively do its job, contractors must fit test each employee. This ensures the size, make, model and style are matched to each individual’s facial structure. This must be done at least once per year or when changes, such as scarring, weight gain or weight loss occur. OSHA requires contractors use one of two methods to determine proper fit: quali- tative or quantitative. A qualitative fit test relies on the user’s sense of taste or smell, or reaction to an irritant. A quantitative fit test, on the other hand, uses a machine to measure the amount of leakage. If the respirator fails the fit test, another size, make, model, or style must be chosen and tested. Facial hair can also cause issues when it interferes with a mask’s seal, allowing dust to enter the mask.
In addition to an annual fit test, ensure operators perform seal checks each time they use the mask. This confirms the mask is properly seated to the face. Refer to the OSHA and NIOSH web- sites for more information.
Train Your Team
One of the best ways contractors can ensure they are consistently following OSHA’s silica guidelines is to train operators on the Table 1 requirements, why those guidelines are important to follow, and how to follow them.
Outside of general drill operation, be sure operators understand that using an air compressor to blow off surfaces, clothing, and fil- ters increases exposure to silica and should not be done. Contrac- tors need to instead provide a HEPA-filter-equipped vacuum that employees can use to remove the dust.
Create a Written Plan
Ensure all team members are on the same page with how the busi-
ness will adhere to the guidelines by assembling a written plan. In fact, a written plan is required by OSHA and should include four things: 1) a list of all tasks that expose employees to respirable crys- talline silica dust; 2) how the contractor will reduce exposure levels to acceptable limits; 3) housekeeping initiatives to help minimize exposure; and 4) how the contractor will minimize the number of employees working with respirable silica dust.
To help ensure the guidelines are being met on a company-wide level, it’s a good idea to designate a point person who can make frequent job site inspections, answer questions, and address any changes that may need to be made to equipment or procedures.
What Should I look for When Choosing a System?
When choosing a dust collection system, keep productivity in mind. Look for units with kits that make installation easy and that have a filter with a large surface area that can be easily purged.
Further, research the manufacturer. Simple vacuum units may not pass new regulations. Choose a manufacturer with a history of experience in dust collection system manufacturing to assure qual- ity and a good ROI.
Ergonomics is also something to consider, particularly when it comes to purging the dust system, since that should be done fre- quently. Choose a system with easy-to-access purge levers.
Health and safety continue to drive changes on the job site. While change may not always be met with open arms, preparing for it will ensure no one is left in the dust. For more information on OSHA’s crystalline silica dust guidelines, visit www.osha.gov.
Rick Walstad is the president and CEO of E-Z Drill. Reach him at rwalstad@ezdrill.com or connect with him on LinkedIn. E-Z Drill offers contractors equipment for concrete drilling and doweling that is faster, more accurate and safer than handheld rock drills. The company was established in 1987 and manufactures slab rider, on- grade and equipment-mounted drills with as many as five gangs as well as vertical utility models and concrete drilling accessories, such as dust-collection systems. E-Z Drill also can custom design and build automatic drill systems for specific jobs. For more infor- mation: E-Z Drill, 610 Cedar St., Perry, OK 73077; 800-272-0121; sales@ezdrill.com; www.ezdrill.com.
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