safety while sandblasting
TRANSCRIPT
• Sandblasting produces a number of health risks from the abrasives being used and the materials being blasted.
• Skin exposure or inhalation of toxins such as zinc, lead, and silica can lead to serious health problems, including silicosis, lung cancer, and breathing problems.
• Ear and eye protection should always be used to prevent injuries from impact stream, dust, and high noise levels.
• Abrasive blasting respirator covering head, neck, & shoulders
• Sandblast helmet
• Hearing protection
• Full gauntlet gloves
• Aprons or coveralls
• Safety shoes or boots
• Respirators filter out contaminants from airborne dust produced during blasting operations.
• Different operations and materials result in a variety of dust concentration and size of particles.
• “Gas Masks” filter out smaller particles, gases, and chemicals that can bypass the lungs and enter the respiratory system causing more harm.
• Air-supplied respirators must be used for any operation where the operator is not separated from the abrasive material.
• Air-supplied, sealed helmets are some of the most essential pieces of safety equipment and they should always be worn during sandblasting operations.
• Always use a helmet that is fed clean air to prevent inhaling microscopic dust particles.
• Helmets should fit well – those that are too big will not provide an effective barrier and will let dust particles inside.
• Always use a helmet that is in perfect condition and that has a high-quality filter to prevent fine particles from getting inside.
• Only use gloves made from leather, neoprene, or rubber materials that are made specifically for the sandblasting operation you are performing to prevent particles from passing through to your skin.
• Gauntlet-style gloves in long lengths create a continuous barrier that prevents dust from entering openings in clothing.
• Compatible cabinet-style abrasive blasting gloves should be used when using a sandblasting cabinet, according to the manufacturer recommendations for that cabinet.
• Coveralls add great protection from abrasives by covering a much larger body area than an apron.
• Lightweight construction makes them comfortable while providing a continuous barrier over a large body area.
• Coveralls should always be worn to prevent toxic dust from contacting skin as well as to protect from mechanical impact.
• Coveralls should be comfortable and well-fitted for maximum safety .
• Safety shoes should always be worn to provide a barrier to dust particles and impact from equipment or other materials that may be dropped.
• Specially designed safety shoes give the operator a sturdy hold during the sandblasting process that reduces the potential for accidents.
• Regular shoes should never be worn during sandblasting to prevent the possibility of particles coming into contact with the operator’s skin or having an accident from slipping.
• Only garments and equipment recommended specifically for sandblasting should be used to provide the appropriate level of protection during every sandblasting application.
• Everyone in the area should wear all of the necessary safety equipment, not just the operator.
• Dust particles are still a hazard during clean-up and all safety clothing should continue to be worn.
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Sources
• https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3697.pdf
• http://www.toolboxtopics.com/Gen%20Industry/Safety%20Consideration%20for%20Sand%20Blasting.htm