Respirable Crystalline Silica (RCS) is a common substance found in construction and general industry when working with any product containing sand or stone such as concrete, asphalt, tile, cement, bricks, granite, or artificial countertops.
Silicosis, a serious lung disease, is caused by visible and invisible particles released when cutting, drilling, grinding/milling or demolishing products containing sand or stone. Silicosis causes scarring in the lungs which may lead to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, lung cancer or tuberculosis. Symptoms may include shortness of breath, coughing, chest pain, respiratory ailments, and weight loss.
Hierarchy of Controls for Silica Exposure
The hierarchy of controls for silica is a series of steps that employers can take to reduce or eliminate exposure to silica dust. The hierarchy of controls is:
• Elimination: Use a product that does not have silica.
• Substitution: Use products with less silica or work methods that do not require grinding, cutting, milling, etc.
• Engineering controls: Use tools and systems that reduce dust, like water sprays, HEPA filter vacuums, local exhaust ventilation, or enclosures.
• Administrative controls: Limit exposure time, rotate tasks, and use signage to protect others.
• Personal protective equipment (PPE): Wear respiratory protection and coveralls as a final measure to protect yourself if needed.
Additional steps to protect yourself include:
• Follow Table 1 of the Silica standard.
• Have a comprehensive Silica Exposure Control Plan.
• Ensure your workers are trained and you have a competent person check the jobsite.
• Do not eat, drink, or smoke in the work area and make sure you wash your hands and face prior to engaging in those activities.
• Remove your protective clothing prior to leaving the site and do not use compressed air to clean yourself.
• Have a third party evaluate your “worst case” worksite to ensure you are below OSHA’s permissible exposure limit (PEL) of 50 micrograms per cubic meter.
