Controlling the risk of exposure to silica dust
Location Task Control measures Work practices
Example only Fabrication workshop – cutting bench
Cutting engineered stone with a bridge saw
Wet suppression system using built in blade water feed nozzle
Water spray / mist guards
Ensure :
• cutting area is clearly marked on workshop floor
• water supply to the saw is turned on and operational before starting the saw
• water is flowing to the cutting area prior to blade making contact with the product
• spray guards are in place before commencing work , and
• regular cleaning of saw table and surrounding areas
Respiratory protection
Full face powered air purifying respirators ( PAPR ) with a P2 class filter
How controls are integrated into daily activities
Tool box talks , pre-start checks and daily cleaning of work areas .
For example , daily checks of :
• water supply & flow
• safety and spray guards are in place
• equipment ( including guards ) have no visible damage or build-up of residue , no blockages
• work area is kept clean & slurry managed to prevent drying out
• PAPR ( tight fitting ) fit checked each time the respirator is worn
• PAPR filter check / replace
• PAPR performance check
Managing the risks of respirable crystalline silica from engineered stone in the workplace - Code of Practice 55 of 57