• Use all available work practices — water sprays, ventilation systems and blasting cabinets — to control dust exposures.
• If you’re working with a new material, check the label for silica. If silica is listed, refer to the product’s safety data sheet (SDS) for more information.
• Always wear proper personal protective equipment. When respirator protection is required, wear only a N100 NIOSH-certified respirator, or a Type CE abrasive-blast supplied-air respirator for abrasive blasting.
• Make sure you stay properly trained in the use and maintenance of your respirator. Contact your supervisor or other designated person if you need assistance or have any questions.
• Don’t alter the respirator in any way.
• Always inspect your respirator before use. Alert your supervisor and replace your respirator if you find a crack, puncture, tear, leak or any other unusual condition.
• Shave facial hair when you’re going to be working in environments that require a respirator. Even a tight-fitting respirator will not create a good seal between the respirator and your face if you have a beard or mustache.
• Wear disposable or washable work clothes and shower if facilities are available. Vacuum the dust from your clothes or change into clean clothing before leaving the worksite.
• Be aware of the operations and job tasks creating silica exposures in your workplace environment and know how to protect yourself. Ask your supervisor if you have any questions.
• Be aware of the health hazards related to crystalline silica exposure. Habits like smoking can add to lung damage caused by silica.
• Don’t eat, drink, smoke or apply cosmetics in areas where silica dust is present. Wash your hands and face outside of dusty areas before performing any of these activities.
