NIOSH have developed recommendations to help protect workers from exposure to crystalline silica dust during construction activities.
The following guidelines for controlling hazardous dust when used enclosed cabs for construction activities are based on the aforesaid recommendations.
Conditioning of the work site
- Develop a health and safety plan specific to the site. The plan must include commitments to recognize conditions that may generate silica dust and plan strategies for dust control or elimination. It should include engineering controls, personal protective equipment and work practices.
- Establish a written maintenance program. Ensure that the holes and cracks are repaired the cabin, the doors are sealed and that the seals be replaced when necessary. If using an electrostatic filter in the filtration system, change it regularly as recommended by the filter manufacturer.
- Place a sweeping compound, a natural basis than sandy plain on the floors of enclosed cabs to help trap dirt and soil that is brought into the cabin. The compound to sweep should be a natural-based compound to reduce any irritation or allergic reaction that the operator could submit to the smells of wax compounds or petroleum-based oils. Before you use any compound to sweep, check a fact sheet on the material (MSDS) to learn the precautionary measures and it may contain harmful ingredients.
- Provide training to operators of enclosed cabs on the use of controls and procedures.
- During the use of excavation equipment must be regularly tests the ambient air to detect the presence of respirable crystalline silica to ensure that technical controls are functioning and whether workers need respiratory protection.
- Reduce the number of unemployed workers near mobile equipment excavation. Use barriers to separate workers, pedestrians and vehicles moving excavation equipment. Ensure that machines are not operated on grades steeper than those specified by the equipment manufacturer.
Engineering controls
- During construction activities, use water to reduce the amount of airborne dust is generated or, if possible, use a dust collection system.
- Using a mobile with positive pressure enclosed cabs with air conditioning and filtered air supply to keep the operator away from dust. The cabins can upgrade older systems that filter, cool and heat the air.
- Do not put vents from the heating or air conditioning on the floor. If needed, should be placed on an elevated area of the cabin where collected less dust on the floor or clothing of the operator. It is best to set up a heating and cooling unit in the pressurization system and clean air.
- Use an air filtration system efficient (high-efficiency filters for input and recirculation) to capture dust generated by the operator or other sources inside the cabin.
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